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OF THE 



ORGANIZATION & PROCEEDINGS OF THE 



BATTLE OF LAKE ERIE 



i|0num^ut JigS0rati0Wt 



AND 



Celebration of the 45th Anniversary 



OF THE 



BATTLE OF LAKE ERIE, 



AT PUT-IN-BAY ISLAND, ON SEPTEMBER TENTH, 1858. 







I 



PRINTED BY HENRY D. COOKE & COMPANY. 

1858. 



-A.]Sr A.CCOTJ]S'T 



OF THE 



ORGANIZATION & PROCEEDINGS OF THE 

BATTLE OF LAKE ERIE 

J 




Mi0uitmi^ 




♦ i ♦ 





♦ 



AXD 



Celebration of the 45th Anniversary 



OF THE ■• « *- 



BATTLE OF LAICE ERIE, 

AT PUT-IN-BAY ISLAND, ON SEPTEMBER TENTH, 1858. 

PRINTED BY HENRY D. COOKE & COMPANY. 

1858. 



Catholic Ur ■'' -^-^r'-^' np AMERIGA 

RELEASED.. \ 2, \ i)^^ J 









ORIGIN AND ORGANIZATION. 



In the year 1852, five compjinies of tlie Volunteer Militia of Ohio 
decided to celebrate the Anniversary of American Independence, by 
holding a three days' encampment on the renowned and beautiful Island 
of "Putin-Bay." 

This spot was chosen by them as being, above all others in their 
vicinity, the most national, and entitled to preference, from the glorious 
associations with which it is identified, and worthy the commemoration 
of that most hallowed of American days. 

They were composed of the following finely equipped and disciplined 
companies : 

Bay City Guards — Capt. R. R. McMeens. 

Sandusky Yagers — Capt. Louis Traub. 

Sandusky Artillery — Capt. L. A. Silva. 

Washington Guards — Capt. William Lang. 

Tifiin Artillery — Capt. Bagby. 

The Island was generously surrendered to the service and control of 
the military, by the gentlemanly proprietor, Col. A. P. Edwards, and 
placed in the charge of Capt. R. R. McMeens, who was chosen comman- 
dant for the occasion. 

The weather, during the whole period of the encampment, was one 
of unclouded sunshine, rendered deliciously cool and exhillrating by the 
gentle breezes constantly wafted from the broad and blue bosom of the 
Lake. 

On the morning of the 4th, (it being Sabbath,) the Battalion was 
reviewed by Maj. Gen. Isaac A. Mills, and his aid, Col. A. A. Camp, 
and presented a very martial and imposing appearance; after which, an 
appropriate and eloquent discourse was delivered by the Rev. E. R. 
Jewett. 

This was the first military display, encampment or celebration ever 
held on the Island since the time it was occupied by Gen. Harrison s 
army. 



On Monday, the 5th, 'Hhe day^' was celebrated. A national salute 
was fired at sunrise; immense crowds of citizens from the opposite shore 
began to arrive, by steamers and sail craft; and in the aiternoon an 
eloquent oration was delivered by Horatio Wildman, Esq. 

During the first trip of the Steamer Arrow from Sandusl<y to the 
Inland, a preliminary meeting was held, for the purpose of eHecting a 
monumental organization, at which the Rev. Dr. Bronson was chosen 
Chairman, and Henry D. Cooke Secretary. On motion of Pitt Cooke, 
Esq., a committee of five was appointed "to draft resolutions expressive 
of the sense of the meeting, in reference to the erection of a monument 
on Gibraltar Rock, Put-inBay, commemorative of Perry's brilliant 
victory on Lake E|e, and in honor of the dead who fell in that memo 
rable engjigeinent." 

Whereupon, Messrs. J. A. Camp, Rev. W. Pitkin, W. F. Stone, Wm. 
S. Mills and H. 1). Cooke were appointed such committee. The meet- 
in<T then adjourned, to give time to the committee to prepare their report. 
The committee subsequently reported the following resolutions, with an 
appropriate preamble, which were unanimously adopted: 

Besolved, That it is expedient on this day to form an association for 
the purpose above specified. 

llesoived, That these proceedings shall be submitted to the considera- 
tion and concurrence of those assembled on Put-in-Bay Island. 

On motion of W. F. Stone, the Secretary of the meeting was deputed 
to lay the proceedings of this meeting before the Assembly at Put in- 
Bay, for further action. 

In pursuance of the last resolution, the proceedings of the meeting 
on board the Arrow were laid before the vast concourse in the grove on 
Put-in-Bay Island, who fully concurred in the action of the preliminary 
meeting, and a committee, consisting of Messrs. J. A. Camp, Wm. S. 
Mills and Henry D. Cooke, were appointed to draft a preamble and 
constitution, for the proposed association. 

In the afternoon another meeting was called, for the purpose of final 
action- the Rev. E. R. Jewett in the chair. Whereupon, the following 
Constitution was adopted: 

Whereas, On the tt nth day of September, in the year of our Lord 
eighteen hundred and thirteen, the gal'ant seamen and marines of the 
American Navy, commanded by the heroic Oliver Hazard Perry, ob- 
tained a glorious victory over the British Squadron on Lake Erie, which 
victory tuined the tide of war, hitherto adverse to onr arms, and was 
the precursor of a series of brilliant triumphs: And Whereas, on that 
day many bold hearts, for whom a nation grieved, died victorious in the 



5 

service of their country, and since by their services and death have left 
their nation in their debt, it is now both the duty and the pleasure of 
their countrymen, to erect to their memory a monument, which shall 
exhibit to future generations the appreciation the present entertains of 
the value of their service and sacrifice. And inasmuch as the scene of 
the g-Iorious conflict should point the memorial of the triumph, it is both 
expedient and proper that such monument should be erected on one of 
the Put-in -Bay Islands of Lake Erie. Therefore, The undersigned 
trusting to the cordial and efficient co-operation of their countrymen 
throughout this broad land, do form themselves into an Association, for 
the purpose above £et forth, under the style of "The Battle of 
Lake Erie Monument Association," and do adopt the following 

co:n'stitxjtio]^. 

ARTICLE FIRST. 
Any person can become a member of this Association by paying the 
Treasurer the sum of one dollar. 

ARTICLE SECOND. 

The officers of the Association shall consist of a President, twenty- 
five Vice Presidents, a Secretary, an Assistant Secretary and a Treasu- 
rer, whose duties shall be such as usually belong to such officers. 

ARTICLE THIRD. 

The control and management of the property and interests of this 
Association shall be vested in a Board of Managers, to be elected viva 
voce, any ten of whom, at any regular meeting, shall constitute a quo- 
rum. They shall have power to fill vacancies in their own body. They 
shall have power to elect from their own body an executive committee, 
to consist of five members, three of whom shall constitute a quorum for 
the transaction of business, to whom they may depute their authority, 
and who shall be subject to their control. 

The Executive Committee shall have power to call meetings of the 
Board of Manngers, and to name the time and place of meeting. 

The especial duty of the Board of Managers is declared to be, to 
carry into execution the object of this Association. 

After the adoption of the Constitution, the meeting proceeded to elect 
officers, in compliance with its provisions, when 
Hon. Lewis Cass was chosen President. 

On the list of Vice Presidents, the following gentlemen were chosen: 
Col. J. J. Abert, U. S. Topographical Engineers, Washington City; 



6 

Hon. Elisha Whittlesey, Commodore R. F. Stockton, General Cadwal- 
ader, Philadelpliia; Hon. Reuben Wood, Ohio; Maj. John G. Camp, 
Sandusky; Capt. Stephen Champhn, Buffalo; J. A. Harris, Cleveland; 
Hon. Judge Burnett, Cincinnati. 

A Board of Managers was to be subsequently chosen. 

A Provisional Executive Committee was appointed, consisting of Maj. 
John G. Camp, Hon. E. Cooke, Earl Bill, Esq., Col. A. P. Edwards, 
and J. A. Harris, Esq., with authority to act until the Board of Mana- 
gers shall elect an Executive Committee in the manner prescribed by the 
Constitution, three of whom shall constitute a quorum for doing business. 

The meeting then adjourned with three hearty cheers for the proposed 
monument, and a considerable amount of subscriptions was left with 
the President. 

This great work was then considered to have commenced under the 
most favorable auspices, and with flattering prospects of future comple- 
tion. But unfortunately, from the sudden and severe outbreak of chol- 
era throughout the Lake region of country, soon after, the excitement 
consequent upon the Presidential campaign, as well as the very local 
character of the celebration, no active or immediate steps were taken to 
carry its provisions into effect, or complete its further organization, and 
the whole matter was allowed to subside into a state of indifference and 
ultimate neglect. 

During the past summer, however, the subject was again agitated by 
those who had become deeply interested in the laudable and patriotic 
project, and the Hon. E. Cooke, being the only accessible member 
of the original provisional committee, was waited upon and requested 
to call a meeting of the committee, and fill, as authorized by the Con- 
stitution, the vacancies occasioned by death or otherwise, with the 
view of reviving the subject, and enlisting all the cities of Lake Erie in 
a union celebration on the approaching anniversary of the battle. 

This was accordingly done, and the following committee appointed: 
E. Cooke, Wm. S. Pierson, F. S. Thorpe, J. A. Camp, R. R. Mc- 
Meens. 

The editor of the Commercial Register of Sandusky, was then solicit- 
ed by the committee, to bring the subject before the attention of the 
press and people, in order to awaken their patriotism, and insure their 
hearty co-operation. When in their daily issue of August 13th, the fol- 
lowing spirited appeal appeared : 

THE TENTH OF SEPTEMBER. 
" But few days in American history are more rich in patriotic associa- 



tions, than the tenth of September, 1813; and at its recollection every 
truly American heart pulsates with a renewed thrill of patriotic enthu- 
siasm. It is gratifying to note that each succeeding recurrence of the 
anniversary of the great event, that then transpired, the grand achieve- 
ment then attained, does not mark a waning in the hallowed regard in 
which that brilliant victory, and the immortal victors are held by Ameri- 
ca's loyal sons. We are all proud of that demonstration of our coun- 
try's triumph over Britain's boasted naval power; we are all proud of 
our gallant Perry, and point with pride to his imposing prowess, rejoice 
that he was an American, and enshrine the memory of his glowing deeds 
of bravery, in the warmest corner of our inner hearts. 

''It is a befitting tribute to the memories of those brave spirits who par- 
ticipated in the struggle of that memorable day, and our regard for the 
importance of the event, that its every anniversary should find the Lake 
cities, by their delegates assembled as brothers at Put-in-Bay, ground 
made classic by its nearness to the battle scene, and by its being the urn 
that holds the sleeping dust of those who fell in freedom's cause, com- 
memorating that event with appropriate exercises, renewing the ties of 
fraternal good feeling, and re-kindling those fires of patriotism, that burn- 
ed with such undimned lustre in those brave hearts, that now lie pulse- 
less and still in unknown graves, near the hallowed scene of their glori- 
ous death. * * * * * ^^* 

" We repeat, then, the approaching tenth of September, will be an ap- 
propriate occasion to give this monument association a fresh impetus. 
Let Buftalonians, Erians, Clevelanders, Sanduskians, Toledoans, and De- 
troiters, go to Put-in-Bay, prepared to contribute liberally of their means 
to this glorious work, and let us have a monument erected to commemo- 
rate the event which makes prominent the day we celebrate, that will do 
us honor." 

The press along the whole length of the Lake shore, responded to, 
and reiterated the sentiment with a promptness and zeal most commen- 
dable and patriotic, for which the committee feel it their duty to ac- 
knowledge the appreciation of their indebtedness, and much of the sue 
cessful results of the day. 

Subsequently the committee deemed it proper to publish the follow- 
ing card, for the purpose of announcing the proposed celebration, and 
concentratiniT some definite action thereon. 

OA.RD. 

"We have met the enemy and they are ours." 
From the spontaneous and favorable responses, of all the leading jour- 
nals of the Lake cities, on the subject of holding a union celebration a 



8 

Putin-bay Island, on tho approachin^^ anniversary of tho Battle of Lake 
Erie, the lOth of Sept. next, to do honor to the memory of the illustri- 
ous Perry, and homage to the graves of his illustrious dead, the 
Executive Committee of the "Battle of Lake Erie Monument Asso- 
ciation," instituted on the 4th of July, 1852, have deemed it a prop- 
er occasion to invito all patriotic citizens to co-operate with theiT^ in 
adopting the best measures to secure the necessary funds, obtain designs, 
and insure the construction and early completion of the structure. 

The site selected for the Monument, was on Gibraltar Piock, an isola- 
ted and commanding islet, where Perry's lookout was stationed, and di- 
rectly in view of the battle scene. Suitable materials for building can 
be procured upon the ground, thus rendering its accomplishment feasi- 
ble with but trifling expense. 

Then let Buffalo, Erie, Cleveland, Sandusky, Toledo, Detroit, and all 
other intervening places, with the adjacent country, come together upon 
this spot, consecrated to our common glory by the heroic achievements 
of our countrymen, and unite in erecting over the long neglected dust of 
the "buried brave," a Monument worthy of their deeds and their death. 

The interest of the occasion will be much enhanced by the presence 
of Dr. Usher Parsons, of Providence, R. I., Capt. Stephen Champlin, of 
Buffalo, N. Y., Lieut. E. Browned, of New Port, P. I., and possibly, 
some others of the few remaining survivors of the battle. 

The committee would earnestly request that each of the above places 
would correspond with them, and assist in the selection of suitable speak- 
ers, the appointments of time, the order to be observed on arrival, (kc. 

E. COOKE, 1 
W. S. PI EPSON, I 

F. S. THORPE, V Executive Committee. 
J. A. CAMP, 

P. R. McMEENS. 

Mcetino-s were held in most of tbe cities and towns, at which it was 
resolved to attend, and take part in the celebration; Committees of Con- 
ference were appointed, and correspondence had with the Executive 
Committee, who upon advisement, and for the purpose of securing order 
and concert of action upon arrival at the Island; issued and forwarded 
the following circular to such committees, for general observance and 
government. 

CIIICULA_R. 

Sandusky, Ohio, Sept. 1st, 1858. 
Gentlemen : 

" ' The Provisional Executive Committee of the Battle of 

Lake Erie Monument Association,' appointed July 4th, 1852, at P\it-in- 



Bay, in view of obtaining immediate and concert of action, in the brief 
time allowed for consultation on the lOtli inst., respectfully offer the fol- 
lowing suggestions : 

1st. That the several delegations — where such selections have not 
heretofore been made — prior to the landing on the Island, select five of 
their number to act as their Executive Committee, and that the Naval 
and Revenue officers of the United States service in attendance, each 
select one or more persons for the same purpose. 

2nd. That said Committee meet at the Flag Staif near the dock at 
11 A. M. 

3rd. That after consultation, a general meeting of all present be held, 
delegations introduced, and officers of the day chosen, and a report from 
the Committee be made of a plan for renewing the organization of 1852, 
or a new organization, for building a Monument on Gibraltar, to com- 
memorate the Battle of Lake Erie. 

4th. After the completion of such organization, a National Salute 
be fired. 

Adjourn for one hour, for pic-nic and such other refreshments as 
each delegation may have provided. 

5th. On re-assembling after adjournment, speeches by orators se- 
lected for the occasion." 

E. COOKE, 
WM. S. PIERSON, 

F. S. THORPE, 
J. A. CAMP, 
R. R. McMEENS, 



> 



Executive Committee. 



Celebration of the 45th Anniversary of the Battle of Lake Erie, at 
Put-in-Bay Island, on the tenth of September, 1858. 

The celebration of the Battle of Lake Erie, on the 10th of September, 
1858, was one of the most imposing and thrilling spectacles, and inter- 
esting events, witnessed upon the waters of Lake Erie, since the glori- 
ous day of the terrible conflict and brilliant victory itself. Large dele- 
gations, with vast crowds of citizens, from most of the large cities, and 
many of the smaller villages of the Lake, congregated upon the Island, 
made memorable and immortal, as the harbor of Perry's valiant fleet 
on the morning of the battle, and as the resting place of his illustrious 
dead, who fell in that action. 

The bay itself presented a most grand and gorgeous pageant, crowded 
with a fleet of magnificent steamers, sail vessels, and yachts, all decorat- 
ed with gay colored banners, streamers, and pendants, while a battery of 



10 

fourteen brazen mouthed cannon, waked the echo's of old Erie with a 
welcome, that made the bold rocks of Gibraltar tremble with their rever- 
berations. 

Veterans were there, who had battled side by side with Perry ; old 
men, who had heard the distant thunder of their guns; statesmen, schol- 
ars, soldiers, men, women, and children, all animated and inspired by 
the soul-stirrine: scene and associations that surrounded them. 

The morning of the day was ushered in with dark and threatening 
clouds, which while the boats were on their way to the Island, discharg- 
ed themselves in torrents of rain. But all failed to dampen the ardor of 
the thousands who had armed themselves with a determination to spend 
the day in appropriate commemoration of the glorious victory with 
which it is identified. 

But most timely and unexpectedly the rain ceased, and the clouds 
disappeared as by magic, while the sun shone forth in the full effulgence 
of his glory, gladdening the hearts of all, and causing the transparent sur- 
face of the Lake to sparkle far and wide, in one glow of liquid light. 

By half past 12 o'clock, all of the several delegations had reached the 

bay. 

The whole fleet was then composed as iollows : 

U. S. Steamer Michigan — Commander, Joseph Lanman, U. S. N. 

U. S. Revenue Cutter, A. V. Brown — Capt. H. A. Mitchell. 

Steamer Forest Queen, Buffalo — Capt. Miller. 

Steamer Ocean, Cleveland — Capt. Evans. 

Steamer Arrow, Cleveland — Capt. Calverly. 

Steamer Queen City, Sandusky — Capt. McBride. ■ 

Steamer Island Queen, Port Clinton — Capt. Orr. 

Steamer Bay City, Toledo — Capt. Edwards. 

Steamer Jersey City, Toledo — Capt. Monroe. 

Steamer May Queen, Detroit — Capt. Viger. 

Tugs, Niagara and Star. 

Yachts E. K. Collins, Cleveland ; Monarch of the Glen, Perrysburgh; 
Morning Star, and Comet. 

Twenty other sailing vessels swelled the number of excursionists to 
not less than eight thousand people. 

At one o'clock, the Executive Committees of the several cities, repre- 
senting the various delegations, met in front of the residence of Capt. 
Fox, on the Island, and was organized by the appointment as temporary 
chairman, of Wm. S. Pierson, Esq., of Sandusky. 

On nomination, the following appointments were made as officers of 
the day : 



11 

President of the Dav — Gov. Salmon P. Chase, of Ohio. 
Vice Presidents — Hon. Ross Wilkins, Detroit, Mich. ; Judge H. V. 
Wilson, Cleveland, 0.; Hon. E. Cooke, Sandusky, 0.; Gen. John E. 
Hunt, Toledo, O. ; Capt. Stephen Champlin, U. S. N., Buffalo; Maj. C. 
W. Hunter, III. ; Hon. Joshua R. Giddings, Jefferson, O. ; Hon. H. W. 
Baker, Norvvalk, O. ; Commander Joseph Lanman, U. S. N., Steamer 
Michigan ; William B. Craighill, Esq., Pt. Clinton, O. 

Secretaries — Geo. A. Benedict, Cleveland ; H. D. Cooke, Sandusky ; 
Wm. C. Earl, Toledo; J. A. Goodrich, Port Clinton; J. H. Herrick, Ra- 
vena; J. A. Plarris, Cleveland; J. L. Newbury, Detroit. 

Committee on Order of Exercises — B. Verner, Detroit, Mich. ; Doct. 
McMeens, Sandusky, O.; H. V. Willson, Cleveland, 0.; William Baker, 
Toledo, 0.; Capt. Champhn, Buftalo, N. Y.; Lieut. Shirk, U. S. N.; 
Capt. H. A. Mitchell, U. S. Revenue Service. 

Marshal of the Day — Gen. J. W. Fitch, Cleveland, 0. 

The Committee on Exercises reported the following: 

National Salute by the XJ. S. Steamer Michigan. 

Prayer by Rev. Dr. Duffield, of Philadelphia. 

Introductory address by Gov. Chase. 

Report from Wm. S. Pierson, Esq., of Sandusky, Chairman of Exe- 
cutive Committee of the Monument Association, on perm anentorgani- 
zation. 

The address of welcome to the officers and survivors of the war of 
1813, by the Hon. E. Cooke of Sandusky. 

Music, by White's Band, Toledo. 

Response and address by Dr. Usher Parsons, the only known living 
survivor of the flag-ship Lawrence. 

Song by Ossiau E. Dodge, and the Barker family. 

Address by Mayor Samuel Starkweather, of Cleveland. ,. 

Music, by Cleveland Band. 

Ode by D. Bethune Duffield, Esq., of Detroit. 

Music, by Yager Band, Sandusky. . . • 

Address by Judge Mason, Toledo. o»«**^ 

Music, by the Independent Band, Detroit. ■. « 

At 2 o'clock, a National Salute was fired by the U. S. Steamer Michi- 
gan, and the several Artillery companies on the ground. 

The exercises followed in the order named in the programme. Gov. 
Chase opened the proceedings in a neat and elegant speech, as follows : 

Fellow Citizens : — We are assembled to-day upon a most interest- 
ing occasion. Forty-five years ago this day, American valor met Brit- 
ish valor, and American skill and conduct met British skill nnd conduct 



12 

upon yonder Lake, and American valor, and skill, and conduct, tri- 
umphed — and may they ever triumph. [Applause.] 

But we have met to-day to indulge in no feelings of exultation over a 
conquered foe; but to celebrate the greatness and the glory of our 
country, identified as they are and must be forever with the remembrance 
of the men by whom the triumph was achieved. We welcome here 
to-day the remnants of that gallant band who fought that battle. How 
delighted must be their eyes as they pass over scenes which meet them 
now — when they contrast that weakness with this strength, that compar- 
atively feeble nation with this great and glorious people ! 

I said we have met together to interchange no feelings of exultation 
over the past, but to thank them who have achieved the inestimable 
blessino-s we enjoy, and rejoice that Providence has favored our prosperi- 
ty. Why should we exult over that nation which was then our foe ? 
Instead of meeting upon fields of battle, we are now peacefully engaged 
in commerce. Instead of answering cannon, and exchauging salutes 
upon fields of battle, our shouts of welcoming fly across the ocean and 
are re-echoed from thence across our mountains, until they lose them- 
selves in the Pacific. Instead of sendiug our thoughts even by the slow 
methods of intercommunication, American perseverance and skill have 
traversed the ocean — not above it, but beneath — and lightning now 
speeds our words of cheer and welcome to our Anglo-Saxon brethren, 
while all our thoughts go up to Heaven in one expression, " God bless 

them." 

We rejoice to welcome this vast multitude of citizens, to whom at last 
is to be conferred the destiny of the country. We rejoice to welcome 
the brave soldier, to whom our defence may be committed; the brave 
sailor, who defends the honor of his country ; and last, but not least, we 
rejoice to welcome here to-day our fair country-women, by whom men 
are nurtured for the performance of the duties of life. 

I am admonished, fellow-citizens, that we must be brief, for the sun 
will rapidly hasten to its setting. It has been thought that the best 
mode in which I could communicate it to the rest, will be to set the ex- 
ample. [Cheers.] 

Gov. Chase's speech was enthusiastically received, and at its conclu- 
sion, W. S. Pierson, Esq., Chairman of the Monument Associa- 
tion, reported the following list of permanent officers of the association, 
which was adopted, viz. : 

President — Hon. Lewis Cass, of Michigan. 

Vice Presidents — Hon. Isaac Toucey, of Conn. ; Dr. Usher Parsons, 
R. I. ; Sidney Brooks, R. I. ; Lieut, alios. Brownell, U. S. N. ; Gov. 



13 

Elisha Dyer, R. I.; Wm. Wetmore, Esq., R. L; Hon. Edward Everett, 
Mass.; Hon. Wm. H. Seward, N. Y.; Augusto Belmont, Esq., N. Y.; 
Hon. Millard Fillmore, N. Y.; Capt. Stephen Cliamplin, N. Y. ; Gov. 
W. F. Packer, Penn. ; Wm. G. Moorehead, Esq., Penn.; Gov. S. P. 
Chase, Ohio; S. Starkweather, Cleveland; E. Cooke, Sandusky; S. 
L. Collins, Toledo; Ross Wilkins, Detroit; John Owen, Detroit; Col. 
Todd, Kentucky ; Col. Jno. O'Fallan, St. Louis ; J. Y. Scammer, Esq., 
Chicago; Hon. John Wentworth, Chicago; Capt. J. P. McKinstrey, U. 
S. N. ; Commander Jos. Lanman, U. S. N. ; Lt. Gen. Winfield Scott, U. 
S. Army. 

On motion, Wm. S. Pierson, Esq., of Sandusky, was chosen Treasur- 
er, and Dr. R. R. McMeens, of Sandusky, Corresponding Secretary. 
COMMITTEE OF MANAGEMENT. 
Sandushj—K. Cooke, Wm. S. Pierson, Pitt Cooke, 0. Follett, A. 
H. Moss, Dr. R. K. McMeens, Jacob A. Camp, Dr. E. S. Lane, F. T. 
Barney, Geo. S. Patterson. 

Cleveland— II. V. Willson, Geo. A. Benedict, J. W. Eitch, H. B. 
Payne, H. P. Wedded, M. Johnson, L. A. Pierce, J. P. Ross, John A. 
Foot, Samuel Starkweather. 

Detroit— L V. Campbell, E. C. Walker, H. B. Misner, G. V. N. La- 
throp, S. D. Elwood, W. H. Craig, Ben. Verner, A. S. Williams, Jacob 
M. Howard, S. C. Andrews. 

Toledo— GharlQ^ Kent, J. B. Steedman, C. B. Phillips, Peter Link, 
M. R. Waite, R. C. Lemmon, Robert H. Bill, S. J. Springer, Charles 
King, Perry Truax. 

Buffalo — Capt. Stephen Champlin. 
Fremont — Sardis Burchard. 

Erie—y^. W. Dobbins, Charles B. Wright, Charles M. Reed. 
Port Clinton — John Jenney, J. H. Magruder. 
Reviera St. Jago, New York; Capt. Lanman, U. S. Navy; Capt. 
Martin, Revenue Service; Capt. Ottinger, Revenue Service. 

The following letters having been received were then read by the 
Chairman. W. S. Pierson : — 

Washington City, Sept. 6th, 1858. 
Dear Sir : — Your invitation to me to form one of the numerous as- 
semblao-e which will meet at Put-in-Bay on the 10th instant, has just 
beerl received, and while I thank you for remembering me in connection 
with that interesting occasion, I regret that it will be out of my power 
to avail myself of your kindness, as I shall be necessarily detained here 
by my public duties. But though absent I shall not the less participate 
in the feelings of gratitude and exultation, which the event you propose 



14 

to commemorate is so well calculated to inspire in every American 
breast. The Victory of Perry upon Lake Erie not far from the place of 
your convocation, on the 10th of September, 1813 was one of the most 
glorious, as well as one of the most important achievements recorded in 
our military annals, 

I was with the Army then encamped in your region of country, du- 
ring that hard fought contest, where we were all awaiting, with anxious 
solicitude, the operations of the fleet, as the command of the Lake was 
essential to our movements, and now after the elapse of almost half 
a centur}^, it would rejoice me to hear my fellow citizens recall and 
recount the glories of that memorable day, mid the scenes where 
they were gained, and which they will ever illustrate. It is good 
for the American people to assemble together in the time of their 
strength to commemorate the deeds of patriotism and valor, which in 
the time of their weakness, enabled our country to pass safely through 
the trials, to which she was exposed. Such a tribute to departed worth 
is the object of the proposed convocation, and I beg leave to express my 
deep sympathy with the feelings which have prompted it. 

With much regard, I am, dear Sir, 

Truly vours, 

LEWIS CASS. 

Dr. R. R. McMeens. 



Navy Department, Sept. 6th, 1858. 

Dear Sir: — I have the honor to acknowledge the invitation, through 
you, of the Executive Committee to be present, on the 1 0th inst., at the 
inauguration and laying of the corner stone of a Monument to be erec- 
ted on Gibraltar Rock, Put-in Bay Island, in commemoration of Perry's 
Victory. 

I regret to state that my engagements will deprive me of the pleasure 
of participating with you on the interesting occasion. 

I am with much respect, 

Your obedient servant, 

ISAAC TOUCEY. 

R. R. McMeens, M. D. 

Portsmouth, Va., Sept. 3d, 1858. 
My Dear Sir: — I hiivQ. received your esteemed favor of the 27tli 
ult., requesting my presence and participation in the ceremonies at the 
contemplated inauguration of the Monument on Gibraltar Rock — in 
commemoration of our glorious naval triumph under the gallant Perry 
on the 10th September, 1813. 



15 

As one of the five sui-viviDg officers whose fortune it was, together 
with our brave tars, to be present on that glorious occasion, I thank you 
for your kind remembrance of me. 

I regret that present indisposition precludes the pleasure of being 
with you to join you in doing honor to whom honor is so justly due, — 
the brave dead, — and rendei-s imprudent at this time an absence from 
my home. 

I am sir, Your obedient servant, 

H. N. PAGE. 
Captain U. S. Navy. 
R. R. McMeexs, M. 1). 



Cincinnati, Sept, 9th, 1858. 

Usher Parsons, M. D. 

Ml) Dear Doctor: — Yours of the 1st inst. arrived before my return 
from the " Yellow Springs," which aftbrdcd me no little pleasure to hear 
you intend to be at the glorious celebration at Put-in-Bay. I am denied 
the pleasure of participating with you in consequence of sickness. 1 
confidently flattered myself 12 days ago, I would be enabled to be present 
and unite with the few survivors in celebratino- the most brilliant achieve- 
ment of the memorable battle of Lake Erie, on the 10th September, 
1813, in which battle I was. Shortly after Col. Crogan's Victory where 
I was on the morning after the British made good their retreat, I vol- 
unteered at Camp Seneca, and was led by Gen. Wm. Henry Harrison 
to Perry's fleet. 

I pray the good people who ha\ e been instrumental in promoting the 
celebration may continue it annually for all time to come. 

May the blessing of Heaven guide and preserve all who attend the 
celebration, truly and sincerely 5s my prayer. 

Most sincerely your friend, 

W. T. TALIAFERRO. 



New York, August 28th, 1858. 
Mr F. T. Barney, Sandusky City, 0. : 

My Dear Sir: — In answer to your favor 
of the 21st inst. on the subject of the erection of a monument on the 
little Island of Gibraltar, I have to say: that if said Monument he to 
the memory of Commodore Perry ^ as I suppose it is, I w^ill be too hap- 
py to contribute to it, not only by the free gift of the land requisite, but 
by procuring subscriptions in New York and one or two other places, 
which I think I can do; I accordingly hereby confer upon you and my 



16 

friend Simon Fox, power to grant a sufficient part of the said Island of 
Gibraltar, in perpetuity, for the erection of said monument, with such 
reservations as you may deem necessary to prevent any sort of injury 
to my property in the group of Islands. It would please me if I and 
my successors after me, were appointed keepers of the ground ceded, and 
of the monument. 

Respectfully yours, 

RIVERA St. JAGO. 



After the adoption of the above organization, and the reading of let- 
ters. Gov. Chase introduced Hon. E. Cooke, of Sandusky, who spoke as 
follows : 
Ladies^ Gentlemen^ Fellow Countrymen: 

I rise, as the organ of the Executive Committee, to bid you welcome 
to these classic shores, immortalized by American valor and rich in the 
associations of a nation's glory. But how can I find language suitably 
to express my congratulations to the assembled thousands who surround 
me, and whose presence this day, gives the lie to the reproach that 
" Republics know not how to be grateful." If I could hope to be heard, 
by an audience so immense, I would thank you in the name of our 
Common Country, for having come up in such vast numbers from the 
beautiful cities of the Lake and the interior, to this patriotic consecra- 
tion. But with a voice, impaired by the wasting power of many years, 
I can hope to say but litttle else, than to offer up my fervent thanksgiv- 
ing to Almighty God, for those evidences of enthusiastic gratitude and 
patriotic devotion, which the occasion has inspired, and which your 
presence this day proclaims. 

We have met to commemorate one of those rare and signal events, 
which, considering the vast interests it involved, the glory it achieved 
and the benefits conferred, has few parallels in history. We shall find 
it difficult, however, justly to appreciate the importance of Perry's Vic- 
tory, without calling to mind, for a moment, the peculiar condition of 
our country which preceded and followed its achievements. A sangui- 
nary war had for more than a year been raging between Great Britain 
and the United States. How it was sustained on the land and on the 
ocean, history has recorded. It must be admitted, however, that its 
commencement on the Niagara and in the Northwest, was characterized 
by defeat, disaster and disgrace. Whether the inglorious surrender of the 
fortress of Detroit and the consequent uncontrolled possession of the vast 
Northwestern Territory by the enemy, was chargeable to treachery or 



17 

cowardice, it is not now necessary to inquire. The event smote the 
heart of the nation with dismay and covered the whole land with con- 
scious humiliation. Our whole vast frontier from Buffalo to Arkansas, 
was at once thrown open to the stroke of the tomahawk, and exposed 
bare and defenceless to the merciless incursions of the savage foe. The 
authority and protection of the United States had ceased within its 
borders. The course of the enemy, leagued with their savage allies, was 
everywhere marked with rapine, massacre and devastation. The heart- 
rending and bloody tragedy of the Kiver Rasin — and other doomed 
localities, followed in succession. Consternation and alarm everywhere 
prevailed. Thousands "without distinction of age or sex" were ex- 
pelled from their peaceful abodes by the invading foe, and the face of 
Heaven was insulted by the murder of men, women and children, and 
by the wanton conflagration of defenceless cabins and villages. The 
flower and chivalry of the land were cut off in their glory, and their 
bones whitened the face of the wilderness. Deeds of cruelty and unut- 
terable horror were enacted, which filled the whole land with lamentation 
and wrung drops of agony from the heart of the nation. A dark cloud 
hung over our devoted country, throwing down from its frowning armory 
the paleness of death upon her cheek, and its coldnesss upon her bosom. 
True, the assaults upon the defences of Harrison and Croghan, on the 
Maumee and Sandusky, had been gallantly and gloriously repelled. 
But these exploits, brilliant as they were, availed little to the relief of the 
frontiers, while the entire possession of the lake by a well manned fleet 
of Veterans, remained in the undisputed control of the foe, with power 
to descend, at any moment, with their combined forces, upon any portion 
of our exposed frontier. The crisis demanded action^ vigorous action^ 
combined with valor and talent to direct it. The command of the Lake 
had become to us indispensible. In view of this, the creation of an 
American fleet, the timber for which was then growing in the wilder- 
ness, was ordered by our Government, as well for purposes of pro- 
tection as invasion. In March, 1813, the charge of its construction 
and command, was assigned to Oliver H. Perry, of Rhode Island, who 
in spite of almost superhuman obstacles and difficulties, in less than 
three months completed his work and launched his vessels at the har- 
bor of Erie. But although he frequently sought to engage the enemy, 
he was unable to bring them into action, until the ever memorable and 
ever glorious day we have met to commemorate. 

Of the battle and its thrilhng incidents, I have no time to speak. I 
am not here, with a tongue of fire, to relight and emblazon the splen- 
dors of the achievement. That office must be left for a more elab- 



18 

orate address, and to others better fitted for the task. And 1 rejoice to 
say that some of its touching details will be given you to-day, in burn- 
ino- words, from a living and honored actor in the scene. On this point, 
therefore, I need only add, that although between single ships on the 
ocean, the trial had been before signally glorious to our flag, yet this 
was the first American Squadron that ever made battle with an enemy, 
and this " was the first English fleet, since England had a navy, that 
ever had been captured." And if anything further were wanting to 
heighten the brilliancy of the achievement, it may be found in the fact 
that our fleet was inadequately and unequally provided with men and 
cannon, — manned mostly by raw recruits, uninured to battle, and com- 
manded by young men^ without experience in naval warfare ! While 
on the other hand that of the British was fully armed — furnished with 
men who had encountered many conflicts on the ocean, and command- 
ed by the experienced and veteran Commander Barclay, who had won 
rich laurels under Nelson, at the immortal Battle of Trafalgar ! ! 

Such was the tremendous contrast between the opposing forces! 
shut now the volume that records the event, and tell me, thou man of 
naval or miHtary science, upon what principle of human probability can 
the triumph of our arms, in a conflict so unequal, be predicted ? 

The contrast was great, but, to the dauntless Perry, by no means ap- 
pahing. After the line of battle had been set, and all was made ready, 
— an hour — a silent hour was occupied in advancing to the conflict : — an 
hour, in which the lives of the squadron, the fate of the North-west, 
and the honor of the nation were suspended upon the talents and col- 
lected valor of one man ! How appalhng the responsibility ! How 
terrible the probation ! How vast the interests involved ! How intense 
the gaze of millions upon the issue ! At such a moment, men of the 
present generation, picture to yourselves the solemn spectacle, the sub- 
hme pageantry of two hostile armies, watching the movement from the 
opposite shores of the Lake — of defenceless thousands throughout the 
unprotected regions of the North-west, whose lives and homes were at 
stake ; yea, of the millions of two great nations, whose final triumph 
hung upon the issue — all, all awaiting with breathless anxiety the result 
of the conflict, and tell me if it was not an hour in which the stoutest 
heart of the Hero charged with such a battle might have justly trem- 
bled? Yet, the heroic Perry remained unagitated, unshaken and invin- 
cible ! He had no fear, but for the safety and honor of his country : no 
ambition, but to conquer or die in her defence. 

At a quarter before 12 o'clock, the solemn suspense was broken, 
and the conflict bejran. At 3 o'clock the battle ended. Its thunders 



19 

were hushed. Then- echoes had died away upon the distant shores of 
the Lake, and the deep "silence of nature" succeeded, broken only by 

the cries of the wounded and the dying." As the smoke 

of Battle rohed away, it revealed a victory, which shed undying glory 

upon the Republic, and gave immortal renown to the victors 

A victory which wiped from our escutcheon the disgrace of Hull's sur- 
render, aveno-ed the insulted honor of our flag, and dissolved forever the 
spell of boasted British maratime invincibility. The pupil of Nelson 
HAD struck to the youthful Perry, and the country rang with acclama- 
tions of joy ! 

In estimating- the immediate and momentous results of this victory, 
it should not be forgotten that it at once opened a pathway for Gen. 
Harrison, to the subjugation of Fort Maiden, to the re-conquest of De- 
troit,— to the restoration of peace and safety to our whole extended 
frontier, and to the crowning glory of his campaign, by the capture of 
the entire British army, at the Battle of the Thames ! It changed at 
once the entire theatre of the war in this region, and transferred it, with 
all its dread pageantry of death and devastation from our own soil, — to 
that of the bewildered and astonished and panic-stricken foe. And, it 
is no exaggeration to assert that from the moment of this victory, the 
ambitious schemes of the enemy upon our western borders were forever 
blasted, and that the last vestige of British domination in the Northwest 
practically expired with the expiring notes of the last cannon, whose 
thunders closed the battle of Lake Erie ! 

In view of these grand and glorious results — connected with the di- 
rect influence they exerted— to revive the public spirit, to restore fresh 
vigor to the American arms : — to waken the national confidence : — to 
sustain the national credit and to strengthen the arms of the Govern- 
ment, at that gloomy period of the war, it is no wonder that the news 
of the victory flew on the wings of the wind, electrifying the whole na- 
tion with joy and filling the heart of every patriot with gratitude and 
exultation ! No wonder that the bells of every church throughout the 
Republic, rang out their merry peals as the news traversed the interior, 
and that every city and hamlet in the land blazed forth with bonfires 
and illuminations' and other manifestations of the highwrought public 

rejoicings. 

And shall we, who are now in the peaceful enjoyment of the full 
fruition of these results :— shall ire, standing here in sight of the spot 
where the great battle which secured them was fought and won:— shall 
WE, who have fixed our homes and set up our household gods in the 
midst of the Territory thus rescued and defended— remain indifferent to 



20 

an event wliicli conferred such priceless blessings, wliicli cost so much 
blood and peril to achieve it, which added so much wealth to the fame 
of the nation, and which still commands the applause and admiration of 
the world ? No, never, never. 

To these scenes, then, let us with each returning anniversary come 
up for our instruction. Let us here re-kindle the beacon-fires of patri- 
otism, which Perry left, on yonder cliff, with a fervent prayer that they 
might burn forever. Let us bring honors this day for the noble dead 
who perished in the fight — and let the laurel and the cypress be kept 
forever fresh and green upon the lonely graves where their ashes are 
enshrined. In a word, let us seek our great practical lessons of pubhc 
duty and patriotic daring in the contemplation of the exploits and sacrifices 
of that dauntless band, who near this spot, perilled their lives for their 
country. But above all, let us this day signalize our grateful apprecia- 
tion of their glorious deeds, by efficient measures for the erection of a 
monument on yonder " Gibraltar Rock," to the memory of Perry and 
his noble companions, — there to stand forever, a perpetual memorial of 
our convictions of the unmeasured benefits conferred upon the Western 
States by their patriotic and heroic valor. 

At no distant day, upon that consecrated spot where sleep the ashes 
of the brave, who fell in the conflict ; " with solemnities suited to the oc- 
casion ; with prayers to Almighty God for his blessing," and in the midst 
of a cloud of witnesses like those which surround me, — let the corner 
stone of that Monument be laid. There, let it rise :^there let it stand 
as long as the blue waters of Erie shall continue to dash against its 
rock-bound base, to mark the spot, which must be forever dear to us, to 
our children, and to our children's children, down to the latest syllable 
of recorded time. 

The lapse of forty-five years has laid down in the dust most of the 
brave men who participated in the victory. The illustrious chief him- 
self, who on that proud day, amid the roar and smoke and storm of bat- 
tle, inscribed his name upon the shield of immortahty, has been com- 
pelled to yield to the only foe he could not conquer; but all, thank 
Heaven, are not yet gone. A little remnant of that immortal band still 
linger among the living, to reap the rich rewards of their labors and 
perils, in the affections and benedictions of their countrymen : — and four 
of these have kindly yielded to the earnest invitations of the Committee, 
and are now present, to receive an expression of the gratitute of the coun- 
try, for which they put their lives at hazard, and to which they devoted 
the flower of their youth. 

Fortunate should we esteem ourselves that we have been j^ermitted to 



21 

beliold this spectacle : a spectacle, the like of which in thrilling interest 
and imposing grandeur, was never before vouchsafed to the present gen- 
eration. Happy, indeed, that God has granted us the sight of these 
veteran survivors, under circumstances so novel and aftecting. Soon, 
alas ! too soon, shall we seek in vain for one survivor, and the last of the 
heroic band will be seen on earth no more forever. Let us then bring- 
fresh honors, this day, to those who still remain to link the living with 
the dead, ere the grave shall have closed upon them forever. 

Gallant and venerable men ! With grateful hearts we bid }'ou wel- 
come, thrice welcome, to these Island shores, and to these bright scenes of 
your early glory. We thank the God of Mercy for having prolonged 
your lives, that we might thus greet you., and that you might behold 
this deeply earnest demonstration of your grateful countrymen. 

On revisiting the memorable spot where you linked forever your own 
fame with the glory of your country, after the absence of nearly half a 
century, it is not strange that the stirring incidents of the victory, in 
which you so honorably shared, should come down upon your memory, 
like an avalanche from the past, and agitate you with conflicting emo- 
tions. 

How changed the scene, since your eyes last beheld these lovely 
shores ! True, the same lake which you then saw wreathed in the smoke 
of battle and encrimsoned with the blood of your companions — still 
continues its ceaseless funereal wail over the slumbers of the buried 
brave, or chants its loud anthems to the praise of your gallant deeds. 
The same sun,, which then looked down from his mid-day throne, and 
fired your young hearts to deeds of glorious daring, still smiles upon your 
return to this renowned theatre of your youthful courage and patriotism. 
But in other respects how great the change ! The haughty foe is gone 
— the din of war is hushed, and instead of the thunders of hostile can- 
non and the shrieks of your dying comrades, you have heard to-day the 
shouts of a neio generation, who have come out from all the borders of 
the lovely land you defended, to greet you with the loud acclaim of an 
overfiowino; and universal o;ratitude. 

Forever hereafter the 10th of September, 1813, shall be as sacred to 
our hearts, as it has long been glorious to our annals. It was your good 
fortune, most honorably, to participate in the dangers of that day. Im- 
minent were the perils you encountered ; glorious the deeds you per- 
formed, and great the sacrifices you made for your country. I will not 
attempt their eulogy. They have already found their place with those 
of your departed compatriots, among the solemn archives of our coun- 



22 



try, where they can never die : — and the history which records them is 
but an imperishable transcript of your claims upon our gratitude. 

You have come to most of the thousands before you as from a distant 
age, to revive recollections and recount incidents, around which the mists 
of tradition had began to cluster : and you find yourselves to-day in the 
midst of a generation, now in the full vigor and meridian strength of 
manhood, who had not seen the light of Heaven, when you here nobly 
bared your breasts to the shafts of death, in defence of the rights and 
honor of your country. 

You are now, where you stood forty-five years ago, with trailed ban- 
ners at the burial of your vahant dead. Like myself, you belong to a 
former generation. You look around you in vain for your youthful 
companions in arms and brothers in peril. They have been gathered 
to their fathers. But you look around you not in vain for the eviden- 
ces of your country's happiness, and for the rich rewards of your patri- 
otic sacrifices and toils : — you look around you not in vain for the joy 
and gratitude of the living thousands who surround you, and who have 
been made happy — most haijpy — to bid you welcome, thrice wel- 
come, on this consecrated day. 

We forbear further to betray our emotions : for eulogy belongs less 
to the living than to the dead : and there is not a heart, throughout this 
vast assembly, that does not fervently pray that we may long be spared 
the duty of granting to you our last and highest honors. Distant, far 
distant be the day which shall mark your setting sun. May the same 
God who shielded you in battle, and guided and preserved you in after 
life, still smile upon your declining years, and cover them with his rich- 
est and choicest blessings. 

After the applause which followed the close of this address had sub- 
sided, Mr. Cooke introduced to the audience Capt. Stephen Champlin, 
as the last surviving commander of the Perry Squadron, who led the 
Scorpion in the front line of the battle, and who fired \hQ first and last 
gun in the conflict. He was received with tremendous cheers. Where- 
upon Gov. Chase read the following highly appropriate response, in lieu 
of a speech, from the modest but gallant commander : — 

Mr. President : — Unaccustomed to speak in public, and having no 
confidence in my voice, I ask the favor of you to read the following- 
reply to the flattering sentiments just oftered : 

Fellow Citizens: — I cordially thank you, for the distinguished hon- 
ors paid to the memory of my old commander. Commodore 0. H. Per- 
ry, and the gallant ofiicers and men under his command in the battle on 
this lake — and also the flattering notice of my services on that occasion, 



23 

— vou have liereby amply rewarded me for tlie toil and exposure of life 

on that eventful day — next to a consciousness that I performed my duty 

faithfully is the approbation of so vast a multitude of my fellow citizens : 

I renewedly thank you, and beg leave to ofler the following sentiment : 

" The thirty-six vohmteers of General Harrison's Army, who came to our assistance 
in our greatest need, to whom we were much indebted for their vahiable services." 

Six rousing cheers were here given for Capt. Champlin. 
Mr. Cooke next introduced the venerable WilHara Blair, of Lexing- 
ton, Richland county, Ohio — as one of the thirty-six volunteers of Gen. 
Harrison's army just referred to — and exhibited to the audience from 
the neck of the old veteran, a rich and massive silver medal, bearing the 
impress of Perry, with appropriate inscriptions — which had been voted 
to him, with the thanks of the Commonwealth by the State of Penn- 
sylvania, of which he was then a citizen, in testimony of his patriotism 
and bravery at the battle of Lake Erie. The old hero was too much 
affected to say one word, but amidst a storm of applause acknowledged 
the kindness shown him, by a modest bow and a Hood of tears. 

Mr. Cooke then introduced Lieut. Thomas Brownell, of Newport, 
R. I., who was second in command of the schooner Ariel. The ap- 
pearance of this brave and faithful officer, was greeted with overwhelm- 
ing applause. He responded by thanking his fellow-citizens for this 
flattering and cordial expression of their feelings, and assured thera 
that it was gratefully appreciated by him. 

Dr. Usher Parsons, of Providence, R. L, the surgeon of the flag-ship 
Lawrence, at the time of the battle, was then introduced and gave a 
detailed and thrilling account of the engagement. Ills address was 
listened to with the most intense interest, and was frequently interrupt- 
ed with cheers that made the welkin ring. The following is the ad- 
dress entire : 
Mr. President and Citizens of the Lake Shore : 

The survivors of the battle of Lake Erie here present, have listened 
with intense interest to the eloquent address just delivered, and thank 
you most sincerely for the cordial reception you have given to its 
friendly and complimentary allusions to our services on the day we 
are now assembled to commemorate. 

Forty-five years ago, w^e were here as spectators and participators 
in the battle, and now, in advanced years, are invited to join a vast 
number of patriotic citizens, gathered from the beautiful and flourish- 
ing cities bordering this Lake, to celebrate tiie victory then gained by 
our squadron. 

We have come hither, my friends, to honor the memory of those 



24 

who fell in that glorious conflict, and are sleeping under the soil near 
where we are now gathered. We have come also to pay a grateful 
tribute of respect to the memory of Commodore Perry and his associ- 
ates in the battle, who have since passed away in the ordinary course 
of human life. And you, citizens of the Lake shore, have sought out 
and invited here a little remnant of survivors to bless our eyes with 
the evidences of your prosperity and happiness, and to warm our 
hearts with tokens of assurance that our toils and peril of life on that 
eventful day are not forgotten. Would to God that more had been 
spared to participate with us in these generous demonstrations of grati- 
tude and respect. But they have passed away ; and in a very brief 
period of time, no spectator will be left to tell the story of Perry's 
Victory. 

That victory derives a general interest, from the fact that it was the 
first encounter of our infant navy, in fleet or squadron. In combats 
with single ships, we had humbled the pride of Great Britain. The 
Guerrier, Java, and Macedonia, had surrendered to our stars and stripes. 
But here, on yonder waves, that nation was taught the unexpected les- 
son that we could conquer them in squadron. But this battle derives 
a particular interest from its bearing on the war of 1812, and from the 
relief it brought to your shores ; — in wresting the tomahawk and scalp- 
ing knife from savage hands ; — shielding a frontier of three hundred 
miles, from assaults and conflagrations of a combined British and sav- 
age foe ; — opening the gates of Maiden to General Harrison's army, 
that enabled it to pursue and capture the only army that was captured 
during the war ; and in restoring to us Detroit, and the free navigation 
of the upper Lakes. 

My friends, you have read, and your fathers have told you the story 
of this victory. Yet, from the interest you still manifest by coming 
here in thronging multitudes, as well as by the expressed wish of some 
present and of the press, it is apparent that you wish the story to be re- 
peated, probably with the desire that you may hereafter relate it to your 
children, as coming from a spectator of the scene : I will, therefore, 
give a brief sketch of the battle : 

I shall not detain you with a history of the construction and equip- 
ment of the squadron, and of the many difficulties encountered, but 
commence with our arrival here t\venty-five days before the action, 
and our cruising in that time between Maiden and Sandusky, and re- 
ceiving near the latter place, a visit from Gen. Harrison and suite, 
preparatory to an attack on Maiden. 

Early in the morning of the 10th of September, 1813, \vhile we lay 



25 

at anchor in this Bay, a cry came from mast-head — " sail ! ho !" all 
hands leaped from their berths, and in a few minutes the cry was re- 
peated, until six sail were announced. Signal was made to the squad- 
ron — '-'•Enemy in sight! get under way P'' and soon the hoarse sound 
of trumpets and shrill pipe of the boatswains resounded throughout our 
squadron with " all hands up anchor ahoy /" 

In passing out of this Bay, it was desirable to go to the left of yon- 
der islet, but on being notified by Sailing Master Taylor that adveree 
winds would prevent, the Commodore replied, go then sir to the right, 
for this day I am determined to meet and fight the enemy. 

There were nine American vessels, carrying 54 guns and 400 men, 
and six British vessels carrying 63 guns and 511 men. 

x\t the head of our line were the Scorpion, Capt. Champlin, and 
Ariel, Lieut. Packet — next the flag-ship Lawrence, of 20 guns, to en- 
gage the flag-ship Detroit, the Caledonia to fight the Hunter ; the Ni- 
agara of 20 guns, to engage the Queen Charlotte, and lastly, three small 
vessels to fight the Lady Provost, of 13 guns, and Little Belt, of 3 guns. 
Our fleet moved on to attack the enemy, distant at 10 o'clock, about 
five miles. The Commodore now produced the Burgee, or fighting 
flag, hitherto concealed in the ship. It was inscribed with large white 
letters on a blue ground, legible throughout the squadron — " Don't 
give up the Ship" — the last words of the expiring Lawrence, and now 
to be hoisted at the mast-head of the vessel bearing his name. A 
spirited appeal was made to the crew, and up went the flag to the fore- 
royal, amid hearty cheers repeated throughout the squadron — and the 
drums and fifes struck up the thrilling sound — all hands to quarters. 
The hatches or passage-way to the deck were now closed, excepting a 
small aperture ten inches square, through which fight was admitted 
into the Surgeon's room, for receiving the wounded, the floor of which 
was on a level with the surface of the Lake, and exposing them to 
cannon balls as much as if they were on deck. 

Every preparation being made, and every man at his station, a pro- 
found silence reigned more than an hour, the most trying part of the 
scene. It was like the stillness that precedes the hurricane. The 
fleet moved on steadily till a quarter before 12, when the awful sus- 
pense was relieved by a shot aimed at us from the Detroit, about one 
mile distant. Perry made more sail, and coming wnthin canister dis- 
tance, opened a rapid and destructive fire upon the Detroit. The 
Caledonia, Capt. Turner, followed the Lawrence in gaflant style, and 
the Ariel, Lieut. Packet, and the Scorpion, Mr. Champlin, fought no- 
bly and effectively. 



26 



<i 



The Niagara failing to grapple with the Queen, the latter vessel shot 
ahead to fire upon the Lawrence, and with the Detroit, aimed their 
broadsides exclusively upon her, hoping and intending to sink her. 
At last they mad^ her a complete wreck, hut, fortunately the Commo- 
dore escaped without injury, and stepping into a boat with his fighting 
flag thrown over his shoulder, he pushed off for the Niagara amid a 
shower of cannon and musket balls, and reached that vessel unscathed. 
He found her a fresh vessel, with only two, or at most, three persons 
injured, and immediately sent her commander to hasten up the small- 
vessels. Perry boarded the Niagara when she was abreast of the Law- 
rence, and further from her than the Detroit was on her right. The 
Lawrence now dropt astern and hauled down her flag. Perry turned 
the Niagara's course toward the enemy, and crossing the bows of the 
Lawrence, bore down headforemost to the enemy's line, determined to 
break through it and take a raking position. The Detroit attempted 
to turn, so as to keep her broadside to the Niagara, and avoid being 
raked, but in doing this, she fell against the Queen, and got entangled 
n her rigging, which left the enemy no alternative but to strike both ships. 
Perry now shot further ahead near the Lady Provost, which, from being 
crippled in her rudder, had drifted out of her place to the leeward, and 
was pressing forward toward the head of the British line to support 
the two ships. One broadside from the Niagara silenced her battery. 
The Hunter next struck, and the two smaller vessels in attempting to 
escape, were overhauled by the Scorpion, Mr. Champlin, and Trip, 
Mr. Holdup, and thus ended the action, after 3 o'clock. 

Let us now advert for a moment to the scenes exhibited in the flag- 
ship Lawrence, of which I can speak as an eye-witness. The wound- 
ed began to come down before she opened her battery, and for one, I 
felt impatient at the delay. In proper time, however, as it proved, the 
dogs of war were let loose from their leash, and it seemed as though 
heaven and earth were at loggerheads. For more than two hours, lit- 
tle could be heard but the deafening thunders of our broadsides, the 
crash of balls dashing through our timbers, and the shrieks of the 
wounded. These were brought down faster than I could attend to 
them, farther than to stay the bleeding, or support a shattered limb 
with splints, and pass them forward upon the berth-deck. 

When the battle had raged an hour and a half, I heard a call for me 
at the small sky-light, and stepping toward it, I saw the Commodore, 
whose countenance was as calm and as placid, as if on ordinary duty. 
'* Doctor," said he, " send me one of your men," meaning one of the six 
stationed with me to assist in moving the wounded. In five minutes 



27 

the call was repeated and obeyed, and at the seventh call, I told him ho 
had all my men. He asked if there were any sick or wounded who could 
pull a rope, when two or three crawled upon deck to lend a feeble hand 
in pulling at the last guns. 

The hard fio-htino- terminated about 3 o'clock. As the smoke cleared 
away, the two fleets were found mingled together, the small vessels hav- 
ing come up to the others. The shattered Lawrence lying to the wind- 
ward, was once more able to hoist her flag, which was cheered by a few 
feeble voices on board, making a melancholy sound compared with the 
boisterous cheers that preceded the battle. 

The proud, though painful duty of taking possession of the conquered 
ships, was now performed. The Detroit was nearly dismantled, and the 
destruction and carnage had been dreadful. The Queen was in a con- 
dition little better — every commander, and second in command, says 
Barclay in his official report, was either killed or wounded. The whole 
number killed in the British fleet, was forty-one, and of wounded, nine- 
ty-four. In the American fleet, twenty-seven killed, and ninety-six 
wounded. Of the twenty-seven killed, twenty-two were on board the 
Lawrence, and of the ninety-six wounded, sixty-one were on board this 
same ship, making 83 killed and wounded out of 101 reported fit for 
duty in the Lawrence on the morning of the battle. On board the Ni- 
agara were two killed, and twenty-three wounded, making twenty-five, 
and of these, twenty-two were killed or wounded after Perry took com- 
mand of her. 

About four o'clock a boat was discovered approaching the Lawrence. 
Soon the commodore was recognized in her, who was returning to re- 
sume the command of his tattered ship, determined that the remnant of 
her crew should have the privilege of witnessing the formal surrender of 
the British officers. It was a time of conflicting emotions when he 
stepped upon the deck. The battle was won, and he was safe, but the 
deck was slippery with blood, and strewed with the bodies of twenty offi- 
cers and men, some of whom sat at table with us at our last meal, and 
the ship resounded with the groans of the wounded. Those of us who 
were spared and able to walk, met him at the gangway to welcome him 
on board, but the salutation was a silent one on both sides — not a word 
could find utterance. And now the British officers arrived-, one from 
each vessel, to tender their submission, and with it their swords. When 
they approached, picking their way among the wreck and carnage of 
the deck with their hilts toward Perry, they tendered them to his ac- 
ceptance. With a dignified and solemn air, and with a low tone of 
voice, he requested them to retain their side arms, inquired with deep 



28 

concern for Commodore Barclay and the wounded officers, tendering to 
them every comfort his ship afforded, and expressing his regret that he 
had not a spare medical officer to send them, that he only had one on 
duty for the fleet, and that one had his hands full. 

Among the ninety-six wounded there occurred three deaths ; a result 
so favorable was attributable to the plentiful supply of fresh provisions 
sent oif to us from the Ohio shore ; to fresh air, — the wounded being 
ranged under an awning on the deck until we arrived at Erie, ten days 
after the action, and also to the devoted attention of Commodore Perry 
to every want. 

Those who were killed in the battle were that evenino; committed to 
the deep, and over them was read the impressive Episcopal service. 

On the following morning the two fleets sailed into this bay, where 
the slain officers of both were buried in an appropriate and aftecting 
manner. They consisted of three Americans, Lieutenant Brooks and 
midshipmen Laub and Clarke, and three British Officers, Captain Finnis 
and Lieut. Stokes of the Queen, and Lieutenant Garland, of the Detroit. 
Equal respect was paid to the slain of both nations, and the crews of both 
fleets united in the ceremony. The procession of boats, with two bands of 
music — the slow and regular motion of the oars, striking in exact time 
with the notes of the solemn dirge, the mournful waving of flags and 
sound of minute guns from the ships, presented a striking contrast to 
the scene presented two days before, when both the living and the dead, 
now forming in this solemn and fraternal train, were engaged in fierce 
and bloody strife, hurling at each other the thunderbolts of war. 

On the eighth day after the action, the Lawrence was dispatched to 
Erie with the wounded, where we received a cordial welcome and kind 
hospitahty. The remainder of the vessels conveyed Harrison's array to 
to Maiden, where they found the public stores in flames, and Proctor 
with his army in hasty retreat. Perry joined Harrison as a volunteer 
aid, who with our troops, chiefly from Ohio and Kentucky, overtook 
and captured the army. Perry then accompanied Harrison and Com- 
modore Barclay to Erie, where they landed amid peals of cannon and 
and shouts ,of the multitude, and from thence he proceeded to Rhode 
Island. 

Commodore Perry served two years as commander of the Java, taking 
with him most of the survivors of the Lawrence. He after this com- 
manded a squadron in the West Indies, where he died in 1819. 

Possessed of high-toned morals, he was above the low dissipation and 
sensuality too prevalent with some officers of his day, and in his domes- 
tic character was a model of every domestic virtue and grace. His lit- 



29 

erary acquirements were respectable, and his taste refined. He united 
the graces of a manly beauty to a lion heart, a sound mind, a safe judg- 
ment, and a firmness of purpose which nothing could shake. 

But this intelligent audience already know and appreciate his noble 
virtues and honor his glorious achievements. The maps of your shores 
and inland towns and counties are inscribed with his name ; and the no- 
ble State ot Ohio and the United States, are about to decorate the walls 
of their respective capitols with splendid representations of the battle 
we are this day commemorating. 

My friends, in the name and behalf of the citizens of Rhode Island, I 
tender you their grateful acknowledgments for the honor done that little 
State on this interesting occasion. She sent hither the Commander of 
the squadron, and a majority of the officers and men. She glories in 
the victory gained, and regards the name and fame of her gallant son 
as one of her choicest jewels, and will ever cherish grateful sentiments 
towards those who respect and honor his memory. You have come 
hither, my friends, for this holy purpose from all the cities of the lake 
shores, and are about to lay the corner stone to a monument to perpet- 
uate his memory and fame. Though his name will outlive structures 
of marble or of bronze, yet rest asured that the citizens of Rhode Island 
will hail with delight the report of this day's transactions, and in their 
future western pilgrimages will linger about this spot and invoke 
Heaven's choicest blessings on you in return for your generous mag- 
nanimity. 

Old companions in the conflict, I rejoice to see you and once more 
take you by the hand, and a more fitting occasion than the present 
could hardly occur or be conceived of. In the days of our youth we 
came to the rescue of this Lake, and to assist in restoring peace to the 
frontier. A kind Providence has lengthened out our days beyond man's 
allotted period of existence, and now, after the lapse of nearly half a 
century, permits us to revisit the place where important scenes transpired 
in our early years, and to unite in celebrating the victory achieved by 
our much loved commander. We joyfully survey the wonderful chan- 
ges and improvements that have occurred since the war of 1812. Buf- 
falo was then a populous village, but soon after a heap of ashes. Erie 
contained but a score of dwellings. Cleveland was a cluster of log cab- 
ins, Sandusky the same, Toledo was nowhere, and Detroit in possession 
of the enemy ; and not a single American vessel was left on the lakes, 
on which to hoist our stars and stripes. 

And what do we behold now? A population increased an hundred 
fold; magnificent and prosperous cities, lofty spires and domes on tern- 



30 

pies of worship; colleges and seminaries of learning; extensive com- 
merce; railroads diverging and intersecting in all directions; the white 
outspread wings of commerce gliding to and fro, and freighted with the 
exhaustless products of the North and North-west, — aye, and ploughing 
yon crystal waves, once shrouded in the smoke of our cannon, and 
crimsoned with the blood of our companions. 

Old friends, we part to day, probably to meet no more. Our mem- 
ories of the past, and the happy experiences of this celebration, fill our 
hearts with grateful and tender emotions, and will serve to gild the eve- 
ning twihght of our days. I bid you an affectionate farewell. 

At the conclusion of Dr. Parson's address, a patriotic song, prepared 
for the occasion, was sung by Ossian E. Dodge and the Barker Family."^' 

Mayor Starkweather, of Cleveland, was then announced, and addressed 
the assemblage in the following spirited and patriotic speech : 

Mr. Starkweather in speaking for the large company, of the citizens 
of Cleveland, who had come to honor this occasion by their presence, 
said, that if it was possible for them to feel a greater interest in it than 
some others, it was because the fate of that city, for the time, was in- 
volved in the issue of the battle we have met to. commemorate. 

Mr. S. spoke of the feelings with which the whole population of their 
then infant city, rushed to the water's side when aroused by the distant 
thunders of that great battle, and of the painful suspense with which 
they hstened to the echoes, which might be tidings of its results, and 
how exultant they became of our victory, when they heard the big guns 
fired the last; for however, in argument, said Mr. S., they may not suc- 
ceed who have the last words, in battle they are sure of the victory who 
fire the last guns, and we have the pleasure of now seeing upon the 
stand, the heroic Champlin, by whose order they were fired to arrest a 
captive ship in its attempt to escape. 

Forty five years, said Mr. S., have now passed away, since our gallant 
men, who fell in that battle, have been reposing beneath yonder wil- 
low in their lonely graves, and now after the lapse of so many years, we 
have the satisfaction to behold this vast multitude, who have come to 
honor these graves, and who have come resolving with one heart, that 
upon this sacred spot a monument shall arise, commemorative of the 
great battle of Lake Erie, and worthy of the heroes who achieved our 
glorious victory. 

To estimate the importance of that battle, we have only to know that 
upon its results depended the safety of our whole frontier from the 
Straits of Macinac to the Falls of Niagara, and what was more than all, 

*See Incidents of the Dny. 



31 

upou its results depended the lionor of the Americau navy, and that to 
conceive of the sensations occasioned by its results, we must realize that 
between two of the most powerful, most Christian and kindred nations 
of the earth, there was a deadly war, that here was the dividing line 
of their dominions, that across this water each must pass, in the attempt 
to invade the territory of the other, and that here was destined to be felt 
their great encounter for supremacy on this inland sea. And here Mr. S. 
proceeded to describe at some length the scenes presented on the eve of 
the battle, the belligerent armies of Harrison and Proctor, as they stood 
upon those opposite shores, waiting the result, and the opposing fleets as 
they approached each other, and it was there, said Mr. S., by yonder 
beautiful island called " Western Sister, " they met, and what a meeting 
was there ? England had until then, been the proud mistress of the 
seas. " Brittiania rules the M^avcs " had been the theme and the senti- 
ment of her national songs. Upou this element she claimed to be in- 
vincible, and though under the stars and stripes, the charm of her in- 
vincibihty had been broken, it was in a conflict of ship with ship, but it 
was now to be tested in a conflict of fleet with fleet. 

When the brave Perry led his gallant men into that fierce, unequal, 
and for a time that doubtful conflict, well may he be supposed to have 
addressed them in the language like that of the renowned Henry the 5th 
on the eve of the battle of Agincourt, when he is thus made to speak : 

" He that outlives tliis clay, and conies safe home, 
Will stand a tip-toe when this day is named. 
He that shall live this day, and see old age. 
Will yearly on the vigil feast his friends. 
And say — to-morrow is St. Crispian. 
Old men forget; yet all shall be forgot; 
But he'll remember, with advantages, 
What feats he did this day; then shall our names 
Familiar in their mouths as household words. 
Be in their flowing cups freshly remembered." 

And forever memorable in American annals, w^ill be the day we cele- 
brate, and upon each return of this day, multitudes in happy throngs, 
will come to visit this sacred spot, to look upon this land and this water, 
once the scenes of such memorable events, and that they may behold 
its change, from a scene of bloody strife, to scenes of the most happy 
intercourse, and rejoice in the contemplation that the nations which 
warred against each other here, have forgotten all their animosities, and 
will war against each other no more, and that to unite the hearts of these 
two great nations, a chord has been laid across the great ocean, and 
slender and delicate as was that chord, it would never be broken, for it 
has been laid under the favoring dispensation of Heaven, and under its 
edict " whom God hath joined together, let no man put asunder." 



32 

In response to a general call from the multitude, Hon. Joshua R. 
Giddings was then introduced by Gov. Chase. He said that the scenes 
of the conflict of 1813 were famihar to him. Forty-six years ago he 
was a soldier, bearing knapsack and blanket. In breathless silence all 
awaited the result of this famous battle. For three long hours they lis- 
tened to the booming of the cannon. Long before they had got any 
correct information it was said we had achieved a victory. It was an 
awful day — that Tenth of September. May God spare you from wit- 
nessing scenes to which our veteran friends here were so familiar. Why 
should men, worshij)ping the same God and trusting in the same salva- 
tion, slay each otherl Perry stood for the maintenance of high and ho- 
ly principles of right — the right of man to enjoy liberty and develop his 
moral nature. The battle for right is still raging. But a hundred men 
will fly in civil life where one will yield on the battle-field. To you is 
committed the maintenance of the rights for which our friends fought 
and bled — they have done their duty, will you do yours ? May you 
prove worthy of all the blessings which have been conferred upon you ! 

An ode prepared for the occasion by D. Bethune DufSeld, Esq., of De- 
troit, was next announced by the President of the day, who made a play- 
ful allusion to the infancy of Michigan at the time of the battle. This 
called out the Hon. Ross Wilkins, of Detroit, who rejoined in a humor- 
ous and telling speech. Michigan, he said, though an infant at that 
time, was now full grown, and one of the fairest of the sisterhood of 
States. She asked no odds of Ohio, because the latter happened to be 
a few years the elder of the two. But she would defer to the claims of 
Rhode Island — "little Rhody" — who was so well represented here to- 
day, and whose gallant sons so well maintained the national honor, on 
this same field forty-five years ago. "Indeed," said Judge Wilkins, 
the battle of Lake Erie was a Rhode Island JigliU Her sons were the 
most conspicuous participants in the hazards and glories of the engage- 
ment. Immortal honor was stamped upon her proud escutcheon by the 
gallant acts of her brave sons on that memorable occasion. While 
Michigan was ready to concede to her sister States every thing that is 
their due, she will yet stand up for her rights. The speaker humorously 
referred to the squabble, commonly known as the " Toledo War," be- 
tween Michigan and Ohio, over a piece of territory, in which contest his 
State came out behind. But she would some day make up for this de- 
feat, if possible. 

The speaker then introduced D. Bethune Duffield, Esq., who delivered 
the following poem of felicitous conception, patriotic sentiment, and rare 



33 

beauty and finish. It is an admirable effort, worthy our most preten- 
tious poets, and was pronounced by the Survivors present " the most 
accurate and faithful descri|)tion of the battle they had ever yet heard 
or read " — 

THE B/VITLE OF LAKE ERIE. 

Come ye, whose feet old Erie kindly laves, 
And join to pour an anthem o'er her waves, 
This day to her broad breast she calls the Free, 
And bids them welcome to her Jubilee. 

Thou stately Queen of all the lordly lakes 
Down where Niagara's thundering chorus breaks, 
Snatch forth a strain of Nature's lofty praise 
To swell the chant thy sister Cities raise. 
Come, thou old Erie, worthy of thy name, 
Bearing the trophy of thy hero's fame, — 
The fragments of that torn and shattered wreck 
With battle's foot-prints still upon the deck ; 
And thou, too, ancient " City of the Straits," 
Bring forth the guns that once assailed thy gates. 
Tho' rude and harmless now they seem to be, 
They once were leveled at thy liberty. 
And thou, fair Forest City, gliding from thy grove. 
Come like the swan and o'er the waters move. 
And coy Sandusk}', nestled in thy bay, 
Where lovers dream the evening hours away, 
Come with Monroe from River Raisin's shore 
And proud Toledo, valiant as of yore; 
Come, grave Maumee, for years full widely known, 
By Heroes, and a fever all thine own ; — 
Come one, come all, young men and maidens come, 
With streaming banners and the rattling drum. 
Extend thy peace-clad galleys far and wide, 
And deck with pennants all the heaving tide. 
Come with your Steamers, each in grand an-ay. 
Come with glad hearts to celebrate this day. 
And loudly let the brazen cannon play ! 

'Tis not of scenes at Salamis we sing. 

Nor brazen prows led by some Roman King; 



34 



Not Drake^ who, bursting like a Nortbeni gale 

Upon the dread Armada's myriad sail, 

Broke up aud scattered on th' avenging sea 

The power that struck at Albion's liberty ; 

Nor Mm to whom were given the massive keys 

That first unlocked our dark Hesperian seas. 

That grand old sea-king, sent and led of God, 

To kiss with foreign keel our virgin sod; 

Not Nelson struggling on the bloody brine 

To carve great England's name on Ocean's shrine ; 

Nor brave Paul Jones, who scourged the English seas, 

The wino-ed herald of our liberties. 

Nor Lawrence, who, when life was on the slip, 

Still bravely cried, " Pray, don't give up the ship." 

'Tis none of these whose mighty deeds we sing, 

But one to whom the Nation's heart will cling 

Till Erie rolls no wave to either shore. 

An old Niagara's voice be heard no more: 

The MAN, who five and forty years ago. 

Here, on these waves, then tinged with o-imson glow, 

'Mid crashing spars, and War's wild overthrow, 

Laid proud old England's blood-red pennant low. 

Let all our Cities in one common Hymn 

Send Perry's praise around old Erie's brim, 

Perry the young. Perry the bold and brave, 

The Christian Hero of our common wave ; 

Let all the bugles their best music pour, 

Let all the cannon in glad triumph roar. 

And let their echoes, leaping from each shore, 

Still chime his name, 

And lofty fame, 
Forever, and forever more ! 

Slow creeps to birth the opening Autumn day. 
Slow breaks along the Lake his herald ray. 
The birds not yet from out the forest raise 
In chorus clear, their matin hymn of praise — 
Still sleeps the duck upon the quiet flood. 
Still weeps the tinted maple of the wood ; * 
Not e'en the mournful cry of waking loon 
Has yet ascended to the sinking moon ; 



35 



D 



Nor night scarce lifted from the misty deep 

The sable mantle of great Nature's sleep ; 

When circled round this lonely island-bay, 

The British hulls like drowsy dragons lay — 

Bright glow the colors round their bulwarks spread, 

Bright beams their snowy canvas overhead ; 

Softly their ensigns open on the air, 

Compact their lines, their brazen metal bare — 

" Sail ho! Sail ho! " sounds from the mast head high. 

And thro' the slumbering fleet, the startling cry 

Calls out from bunk and berth, the ready crew. 

To find their leader's orders all in view; 

For, see ! his signals on the dawn display, 

" The foe in siglit — let all he under ivay! " 

Now trumpets hoarse along the waters speak. 
And block and tackle thro' each vessel creak ; 
The sailor's deep-toned chimes in chorus fall 
Responsive to the boatswain's piping call ; 
As thro' the fleet, goes up with clam'rous joy, 
The shout, " all hands trip anclior, and ahoy! " 

Now slowly glide the vessels under way. 

And point their prows beyond the silent bay ; — 

" Yon isle, pass to the left! " their Leader cries, 

" It is not safe! " the Saihng Mate replies; 

" Then to the right! for I tliis very day 

Am fall resolved to meet tlie enemy! " 

And with the wind then filling up his sail. 

He leads the fleet tow'rd War's descending gale. 

And while the vessels onward slowly drag, 

Lo! upward mounts brave Perry's fighting flag; 

And soon the noisy music of the drum 

Commands " all liands to quarters! " and they come — 

Sealed are the hatches, and the lint outspread 

To staunch the wounded, and enshroud the dead — 

And Surgeons with their aids, descend and wait 

For such as here may pass Death's bloody gate — 

Upon the flag-ship of the royal fleet 

Stands one who erst had fought at Nelson's feet, 



36 

Who in the bloody fight at Trafalgar 
Had bravely won an honorable scar, 
Coldly he looks, (and with that high disdain 
Which Albion loves to wear when on the main,) 
On that raw fleet now straggling from the bay, 
Led by a youth who on that deadly day 
First mingled in the sea-fight's wild afiray — 
His vessels framed along the wood-clad shore 
Had scarcely dipped the wave which onw^ard bore 
Their dauntless builder to the battle's roar — 
Youno- were his years, but all his bearing told 
That he a Warrior's wisdom could unfold 
When e'er the struggle of the day should come, 
And shot and shell began to thunder home. 

Slow wore the day, each Captain's skillful eye 

Seeking to weather-gage his enemy. 

The winds were hushed — hushed was each j^ailor's breatli, 

Ere the mad guns expelled their blast of death; 

Sio-nals were flashino- throuo-h each battle line. 

And gun-boats dashing to obey the sign. 

Silence hung heavy o'er the emerald wave, 

That silence which so sorely tries tlie brave, 

And ere it ushers in the battle-cry, 

Gives visions to the home returning eye, 

And whispers to each heart, ivhat if thou die! 

Or like the hurricane's mysterious hush 

That sleeps upon the air, before the rush 

Of overturning winds, and tempest blast 

That down to Earth both tower and turret cast. 

Eio-ht bells had pealed the full meridian hour 
As battle's gloomy front began to lower. 
Set were the sails, — set every sailor's lip, 
On board each fair and slow-advancing ship; 
And with the proper range each crew now runs, 
Through every port-hole all the black mouthed guns. 
From out the rigging, as their vision cleared. 
The eager look outs with their glasses peered. 
" What see'st in yon jieetV the Briton cries, 
" I &ee the crew at j>rayers^'' a tar replies — 



37 

" At prayersr says one, with mocking laugh and jeer, 

" rd rather hear the rebels curse and sivearP^ 

'• At prayers'' another said ; " such men I fear; 

" Ferhajis the Nation's God those prayers may hear! 

''■And woe to those who meet His glittering Spear!" 

Closer, still closer, creep the squadrons on. 
Nearer, yet nearer, frowns the shotted gun — 
And now the sea bird's wild, prophetic scream, 
(As o'er the waves his snowy pinions gleam,) 
A moment starts each palpitating crew, 
And bids all hearts express the last adieu. 

But see that silver wreath of curling smoke,— 

'Tis Barclay's gun ! The silence now is broke. 

Champlin, with rapid move and steady eye, 

Sends back in thunder tones a bold reply. 

Another gun ! another thunders out, 

And hark ! there goes the British battle-shout. 

And hark again ! above the pealing roar, 

" Close order, men! let slip the dogs of loar!'' 

'Tis Perry's trumpet speaks, and thro' the fleet 

His guns, unmuzzled, pour their iron sleet. 

And soon, with battle's blaze, begin to heat. 

« Close action," was the order of the day, 

And down mid gathering smoke, and fire, and spray. 

The "Lawrence" fearless holds her deadly way. 

Bravely she met the storm of iron hail. 

That swept her decks and splintered every rail ; 

Three hostile vessels crowding hard and last. 

Poured, through her bulwarks. War's destructive blast; 

And as each spar, and brace, and bowline fell, 

And men lay shattered by the crashing shell, 

She seemed almost the very prey of Hell ! 

Muzzle to muzzle still she poured her fire. 

Though every minute saw a life expire — 

And when unbroken hmbs had ceased to be 

And none remained erect on foot or knee. 

The wounded men came crawling from below 

To pull a rope or let a lanyard go. 



38 

One gun was left upon her starboard side — 

'Twas all she had to stem War's dreadful tide; 

This Perry seized — and with a lighted brand, 

Discharged a shot with his ensanguined hand, 

For now, alas ! the scuppers held most all his bleeding band 

Stripped of her spars, and shorn of every sail. 
The "Lawrence" lay a wreck before the gale; 
Her guns disabled, and without a crew. 
What could her still unconquered Captain do? 
He yields to Yarnall his poor shattered wreck. 
And points his way tow'rd the Niagara's deck; 
Behold, he leaves the vessels sphntered side, 
To drive his boat across the bloody tide, — 
With flag in hand and close -compressed lip. 
He tells brave Yarnall " Don't give up the ship !" 
Then bids the coxswain let the painter slip. 
Now, bolt upright he stands, although the sky 
Seems raining leaden bullets on his way; 
Until his men, all over-anxious grown. 
Among the stern-sheets drag the Hero down. 

The gauntlet pass'd — now all his sailors' eyes 
Turn to the ship where his proud ensign flics, 
Then, louder than the roaring cannon's voice. 
They lift the cheer, and with glad hearts rejoice ; 
For, though around him War's dread volley flew. 
The God of Battle safely led him through — 
Gave to his hand another gallant craft, 
And sent a breeze his ownward way to waft, 
A moment more, and on he wildly drives. 
While all his battle-thirst again revives. 
Grand as Leonidas at Thermopylae, 
Dashed now our Hero on the enemy ; 
Full armed, once more in thunderbolts he falls, 
And pours his broadside on their wooden walls; 
The gun-boats roar along his bloody wake, 
And like young demons, rend the lines they break. 
Flash after flash his fatal lightnings shone, 
Crash after crash he brings their canvas down — 
Groan after groan succeeded every gun. 



39 

Moan followed moan, until the work was done — 
A squadron lost, and Perry''s victory won! 

Yes ! the great battle now at last is done ! 
Hush'd are the shoutings, hush'd is every gun; 
Down run the ensio;ns of Great Eno-Lind's Mio-ht! 
Down drops her star athwart the gloomy night! 
Brave Barclay, fainting at his sore defeat, 
His sword surrenders, with his broken fleet; 
While upward leap the glorious stripes and stars, 
And well adorn the Briton's shattered spars. 
Loud shout our heroes at each heated gun, 
" A battle and a name this day is won! 
And England^ triumph on the sea is done! " 

Bravo Perry, gathering now the victor's spoils. 
Sadly and slowly tow'rd the harbor toils ; 
Bright were his eyes, though sad his pensive mood, 
As he beheld his scuppers run with blood; 
Or saw afloat upon the crimsoned wave. 
Some face, that e'en in death, revealed a brave. 
PI is heart was tender, and he mourned the death 
Of those who served him with their latest breath ; 
And with a tear and prayer his dead he lay 
Within the shade of this sweet island-bay, 
And here, through Autumn's melancholy days. 
Old Erie sobs, and chants their endless praise. 

Here too the foe, in slow procession come, 
With wailing trumpets, and with muffled drum; 
The plaintive music sweeps the harbor's walls, 
And out upon the lake its echo falls, 
Where War's dark cloud still hugs the trembling wave, 
And spreads her mantle o'er the sailor's grave; 
While every soldier, every sailor heart 
Forgets his flag, and acts out Nature's part; 
Walks slowly by the rude but bannered bier, 
And give's his foe the honest warrior's tear. 
And there beneath yon willow's waving bough. 
The foes of yesterday, are brothers now. 



40 

This dciy from Lake-washed cities here we throng 

To raise anew the chivah'ous battle song, 

To see again the battering squadron's flame, 

Again to hear the cannon loud proclaim 

Their thundering pagans to great Perry's name — 

To meet the remnants of his glorious band 

And grasp with more than grateful hand, 

Champlin and Blair, Brownell and Parsons pure! 

Long may their waning strength and years endure. 

New generations here this day we see 

With brilliant pomp and gay festivity, 

With lute and tiibret and the vocal chime, 

That rings far dcwn the avenues of Time, 

With brazen trump and clanging drum and bell, 

In soul-refreshing strains again to tell 

How well. 

How bravely well, 
Great Perry stood 

When shot and shell 

Around him fell. 
And vexed and seethed old Erie's peaceful flood. 
And dyed her emerald waves with Valor's precious blood. 

But more! we come this day with grateful thanks. 

To crown this classic island's wooded banks 

With broad foundation stones, on which to rear 

The thrilling record of that glorious year, — 

To write on high old Erie's Naval story, 

And give to God, and Perry all the glory! 

Yes! let the monumental shaft arise 

Above these forest boughs and greet the skies; 

Here let the woodland birds each morning raise 

To Perry, and his braves, their hymn of praise. 

Here let the Nation come with each o-lad vear 

And }ield this dust the tributary tear; 

Here wreathe the Autumn cup, and loud proclaim 

Fresh honors to our Hero's honored name, — 

Here chant, how Man the very Fates can bend 

By bravely persevering to the end. 

'Twas this that won for Perry his renown, 



41 

'Tis this that plucks from Tyranny her crown, 
'Tis this that saves our flag on Land and Sea, 
And girds with sentinels of Liberty 
This teeming land — God keep it ever free ! 

Then let us send the towei-iug shaft on high, 

To court new blessings from each morning sky; 

To teach our rising youth on land and flood, 

That Liberty is worthy of their blood ; 

And on its tablet write, in boldest line, 

Those words that round this Lake should over shine — 

That modest message of our Hero's pen, — 

Long may it live among our ^aval men. 

Long gleam from all our armed forts and towers, 

"WE'VE MET THE ENEMY, AND THEY ARE OURS !" 

Hon. Judge Mason, of Toledo, was next introduced. We regret to 
say this gentleman's remarks were almost wholly lost upon his hearers, 
as what with the whistling of steamers, firing of salutes, beating of 
drums, rinofino- of bells, &c., his audience were in a measure deafened. 
We are, therefore, unable to lay before our readers a satisfactory re- 
port of the gentleman's speech, which w^e regret very much. 



INCIDENTS OF THE BATTLE. 

The discourse on the Battle of Lake Erie by Dr. Usher Parsons, 
being written by an eye witness of high character and intelligence, is 
the most authentic history that we have of that day. From this dis- 
course, delivered before the Rhode Island Historical Society, in 1852, 
we extract the following passages, as giving a graphic picture of what 
was going on in the Lawrence: 

Among those early brought down was Lieut. Brooks, son of the late 
Governor of Massachusetts, a most accomplished gentlemen and officer ; 
and renowned for personal beauty. A cannon-ball had struck him in 
the hip, he knew his doom, and inquired how long he should live ; I told 
him a few hours. He inquired two or three times how the day was 
going, and expressed a hope that the Commodore would be spared. 
But new-comers from deck brought more and more dismal reports, until 
finally it was announced that we had struck. In the waihngs of de- 
spair among the wounded, some of whom were for sinking the ship, I 
lost sight of poor Brooks for a few minutes, but when the electrifying 
cry was heard that the enemy's two ships had struck, I rushed on deck 



42 

to see if it were true, and then to poor Brooks to cheer him ; but he wa?; 
no more, — he was too much exhausted by his wounds to survive the 
confusion that preceded this happy transition. 

When the battle was raging most severely, Midsliipman Laub came 
down, with his arm badly fractured; I applied a splint, and requested 
him to go forward and lie down. As he was leaving me, and while my 
hand was on him, a cannon-ball struck him in the side, and dashed 
against the other side of the room, instantly terminating his sufferings. 
Another person was killed, and one wounded in the Surgeon's room, and 
six cannon-balls passed through this room in a line of ten feet, and ail 
of them between three and four feet from the floor. 

There were other incidents less painful to witness. The Commo- 
dore's doof had seated himself in the bottom of the closet containino- all 
our crockery. A cannon-ball passed through the closet, and smashed 
crockery and door, covering the floor with fragments. The dog set up 
a barking protest against the right of such an invasion of his chosen 
retirement. 

Lieut. Yarnall had his scalp badly torn and came below with the 
blood streaming over his fnce. Some lint was hastily applied and con- 
fined with a large bandanna, Avith directions to report himself for better 
dressino^, after the battle, as he insisted on returnino- to the deck. 
The cannon-balls had knocked to pieces the hammocks stowed away on 
deck, and let loose their contents, which were reed or flag tops, that 
floated in the air like feathers, and gave the appearance of a snow storm. 
These lighted on Yarnall's head covered with blood, and coming below 
with another injury, his bloody face covered with cattails, made his 
head resemble that of a huge owl. Some of the wounded roared out 
with laughter, " That the Devil had come for us." At half-past 2 o'clock, 
out of one hundred and one sound men, wherewith the Lawrence had 
gone into action, twenty-two were killed, and sixty-one wounded, a 
slaughter unprecedented in naval warfare! Her rigging was shot away 
— her spars were splintered, her sails torn to pieces, her guns dismoun- 
ted; she lay a helpless wreck on the water. Capt. Perry had himself 
just assisted to fire her last gun. He ordered the boat to be lowered; 
and saying to his first Lieutenant, Mr. Yarnall — who though severely 
wounded, refused to stay below, — " I leave to your discretion to strike 
or not — but the American colors must not come down over my head to- 
day." He took the battle flag upon his shoulder, and descended into 
the boat. A few minutes later the Lawrence was compelled to strike 
her colors. 

As the American colors came down, there went up from the British 



4S 

fillips h siiout of triiiinpli. To one Wilson Mays, on board the Law- 
rence, the Master, Mr. Taylor, said — " Go below, Mays, you are too 
weak to be here." "1 can do something, sir.'' "What can you do?" 
'• I can sound the pumps, sir, and let a strong man go to the guns;" 
and when the fight was ended, there ho was found with a ball through 
his heart. 

The following song, for some time subsequent to the Battle, was quite 
current among the sailors, and was thought proper to be introduced 
here for preservation, as a rehc of the times : — 

BATTLE OF ERIE, 1813. 
Avast, honest Jack, now before you get mellow, 
Come tip us that stave just, my hearty old fellow, 
'Bout the young Commodore, and his fresh water crew. 
Who keel-hauled the Britons and captured a few. 

'"Twas just at sun-rise, and a glorious day. 
Our squadron at anchor snug in Put-in-Bay, 
When we saw the hold Britons, and clear for a bout, 
Instead of put in, by the Lord we put out. 

" Up went Union Jack, never up there before, 
* Don't give up the ship!' was the motto it bore; 
And as soon as that motto our gallant men saw, 
They thought of their Lawrence and shouted huzza! 

" ! then it would have raised your hat three inches higher. 
To see how we dashed in among them like lire ! 
The Lawrence went first and the rest as they could. 
And a long while the brunt of the action she stood. 

"'Twas peppering work — fire, fury and smoke, 
And groans that from wounded lads spite of 'em broke. 
The water grew red round our ship as she lay, 
Though 'twas never before so, till that bloody day. 

" They fell all around me like spars in a gale ; 
The shot made a sieve of each rag of a sail; 
And out of our crew scarce a dozen remained; 
But these gallant tars still the battle maintained. 

" 'Twas then our commannder — God bless his young heart. 
Thought it best from his well-peppered ship to depai't. 
And bring up the rest, who were tugging behind — 
For why — they were sadly in want of a wind. 

" So to Yarnall he gave the command of his ship, 
And set out like a lark, on this desperate trip, 
In a small open sail, right through their whole fleet. 
Who with many a broad-side our cock-boat did greet. 

" I steered her, and damme if every inch 
Of these timbers of mine at each crack didn't flinch: 
But our tight little commodore, cool and serene, 
To stir ne'er a muscle by any was seen. 



44 



" Whole volleys of muskets were levelled at him, 
But the devil a one ever grazed e'en a limb, 
Though he stood up aloft in the stern of the boat 
Till the crew pulled him down by the skirt of bis coat. 

" At last, thro' Heaven's mercy we reached t'other ship, 
And the wind springing up we gave her the whip, 
And run doAvn their line, boys, thro' thick and thro' thin. 
And bothered their crews with a horrible din. 

" Then starboard and larboard, and this way and that, 
We banged them and raked them, and laid their masts flat, 
Till one, after t'other, they hauled down their flag, 
And an end, for that time, put to Jonny Bull's brag. 

" The Detroit and Queen Charlotte and Lady Provost: 
Not able to fight or run, gave up the ghost: 
And not one of them all from our graplings got free, 
Tho' we'd fifty-four guns and they just sixty-three. 

"Smite my limbs! but they got their bellies full then. 
And found what it was, boj's, to buckle with men. 
Who fight, or what's just the same, think that they fight 
For their country's free trade, and their own native right. 

"Now give us a bumper to Elliott and those 
Who came up in good time to belabour our foes; 
To our fresh water sailors we'll top ofl" one more, 
And a dozen, at least, to our young Commodoie. 

" And though Britains may brag of their ruling the ocean, 

And that sort of thing, by the Lord I've a notion, 

I'll bet all I'm worth — who takes it, who takes? 

Tho' their lords of the sea, we'll be lords of the lakes!" 



INCIDENTS OF THE CELEBKATION. 

Loud calls being made for Ossian E. Dodge, at the close of Dr. Par- 
son's address, Gov. Chase stepped forward and remarked : 

" It is with no little gratification that I am enabled to state that we 
will now have an original song by an original singer! That the song 
is good, and will be well sung, you will be well assured when I inform 
you that it will be sung by the author Ossian E. Dodge." Three hearty 
cheers were now given for Mr. Dodge, when that gentleman came for- 
ward with the " Barker Family" to assist him in the chorus; and just 
as he was about commencing, — the Governor again arose and re- 
marked: 

"Though our singer's name is Dodge, and it is a common dodge of 
his to dodge out an original song in a few minutes time, — we are hap- 



45 

py to know that he hasn't on this oocasion dodged us.''^ Shouts of 
1 aughter followed, but Mr. Dodge quickly replied. 

" If — as it has been stated — I am in the habit of hastily dodging at 
songs, I hope whenever our worthy Chairman is present — that my songs, 
may be truly Ckase-d.^^ Amid peals of laughter, Mr. Dodge now com- 
menced the following song, and was vociferously cheered at the end of 
each verse. 

WE'VE MET THE ENEMY AND THEY'RE OURS. 

Just forty-five years now have fled 

Since Perry young and bold, 
Fought bravely and for Freedom bled, 

And thus his victory told. 

CHORUS. 

Huri-ah! hurrah! tra la la, la la la. 

We live for music, love and flowers; 
Hurrah ! hurrah ! tra la la, la la la, 
\Wve met the enemy and they're ours. 

Applause or praise with flattering tongue 

Brave Perry ne'er did court; 
But when the victory he had won 

This was his plain report. 

Chorus. 

When e'er opponents of the free 

Are on our waters found, 
Our gallant sons of Liberty 

Will thus the air resound. 
Chorus. 

But now with England we're at peace 

And free from toil and care. 
We'll strive the Union to increase 

And fill with strains the air. 
Chorus. 

Our love for peace and brotherhood 

Comes from the God above. 
For evil we should render good. 

And conquer all with love. 

Chorus. 



ON BOARD THE STEAMER OCEAN. THE RETURN. 

On casting off, the steamers kept together in the Bay for some time, 
whilst the bands kept up a constant playing, gun answered gun from 
the steamers and from the shore, and cheer answered cheer from the 
crowded boats. Finally, with a parting cheer, the steamers separated 
and headed for home. 

It having been noticed that Mr. Dodge was busily writing a song du- 



46 

rino- tlie exercises on the stfind, he was loudly called for at the close of 
Judge Mason's remarks to sing his " machine song," but excusing him- 
self on the ground of not having sufficiently strong lungs to successfully 
compete with six steamboat bells, and as many more engine whistles, 
he promised to sing the song on the steamer Ocean, — claiming that that 
would be a more appropriate place — inasmuch as the song contained a 
history of the entire day's proceedings. On being called for on the 
boat, Mr. Dodge said that he hoped no one would criticise the song as a 
poetical composition — for although in business life the motto Avas " meas- 
ures not men" — with a, rhyming machine under full headw^ay it was 
quite the reverse — being " men not measure." Here it is : — 

DODGE'S MACHINE SONG. 

'Tis oftentimes said that a rhyming machine, 
Is a novel invention, not every day seen; 
But bringing to-day quite an old one along, 
I'll set the mill going and grind out a song. 

Well, just at the half past seven o'clock. 

The good steamer Ocean pulled out from the dock. 

And while from the river she merrily ran on 

The ladies all screamed at the sound of the cannon. 

There were plenty of soldiers with musket and sword, 
And a number of men lost their hats overboard. 
While soon in the cabin we all had a chance 
To each take a lady and all have a dance. 

And now I will this opportunity take 
To say that steam loats are well manned on the lake; 
And you will no doubt all respond to ray motion 
That none can be more so than good steamer Ocean. 

To prove that this steamer is rapid and fierce. 
She's got for an agent one General Pierce. 
And passengers dream of the cupids and heavens, 
While sailing so smoothly with good Capt. Evans. 

When the steamer is ready and all wish to start her. 

The clerk sells the tickets— one good David Carter; 

And to be doubly sure that she'll never be late, 

One William McKay is the popular mate. 

Of danger there never can be any fear 

So long as George Watson is chief engineer; 

And no one to grumble can ever be able 

When the stewart, John Greensdale, provides for the table. 

While sailing along seven miles from the main, 

There suddenly rose quite a drizzling rain, 

When a man who was just on the invalid list 

Said he wished from his heart that the storm might be missed. 



47 

The storiu passing over, the weutlier proved fair — 
'Twas thought through the means of a minister's p-aver — 
And soon into harbor we easily ran 
Amid deafening cheers from the ship Michigan. 

On the Forest Queen coming there sprung up a race, 
To get the first view of our Governor Chase, 
And to see 'em all running was no little sport. 
While the cannon kept booming their splendid report. 

On getting together ami mounting the stand. 
We were stilled bj the chief magistrate of the land; 
And then brother Duffield soon offered a prayer. 
And proffered his thanks that tlie weather was fair. 

And next the large crowd with the happiest face 
Paid the best, of attention to Governor Cliase; 
He welcomed old soldiers, all men and their babies, 
And welcomed mostheartilv all of the ladies. 

iSanduskv next gave us her venerable Cooke, 

iio though he was feeble yet talked like a book; 
lie said we had all of us cause to be merry 
While thinking of valorous Commodore Perrv. 

Capt. Champiiu who thought he could write to you belter, 
Next gave to the crowd a most capital letter; 
When brave Capt. Brownell, whom none can inipeach. 
With tears in his eyes gave a capital speech. 

The good Surgeon Parsons next rose on the stand 
And gave us account of the Commodore's band; 
He caused liis ohl comrades to shed many tears. 
And brought from the audience nine hearty oiieers. 

The next man to mention in this lengthy ditty. 
Was the honorable Mayor from our own Forest City, 
Who spoke very eloquent, feeling and loud, 
And plainly with eloquence carried the crowd. 

Just forty-five years have departed, ray friends, 
Since England found out that she must make amentls. 
And the lords of that country will ever remember 
Young Commodore Perry and the Tenth of September. 

Our Good " Father Gidding's" of \enerable woith. 
By the call ot the crowd was obliged to come forth. 
And with warm, honest heart, and with eloquence good 
He stirred up the people and heated the.r blood. 

Judge Wilkin's, an aged and comical man. 
Next handsomely spoke for the State Michigan, 
And his whole speech with humor and eloqu? nee rung 
That the pride of Toledo should ever be sung. 



48 

P'riend Duffield now rose, and perhaps you all know him, 

Who read us a witty and capital poena; 

He pictured the battle quite vivid and terse, 

And did it quite handsomely all up in verse. 

The screech of the pipes blowing steam in the basin, 
Proved rather too much for Toledo Mason; 
When the crowd without stopping to render their vote. 
Made a rapid stampede for their favorite boat. 

I've come down at last to the end of the list. 
And the mill must now stop for want of a grist; 
For the mill requires feeding as everyone knows, 
So the ditty is now brought at last to a close. 

Three rousing cheers were given for Mr. Dodge at the conclusion, 
and he was requested, to repeat the song which had been given at the 
platform on the Island. 



ON BOARD THE STEAMER QUEEN CITY. 

While the steamer was passing out of Sandusky Bay, with three of 
the survivors of the Battle on board, Dr. Usher Parsons recoo-nized 
and pointed out the locality where the fleet had come to anchor, a few 
days before the engagement, and fired three guns, a signal previously 
agreed upon between Capt. Perry and Gen. Harrison. The next day the 
General and his suite came on board drenched with rain, among whom 
were the celebrated Gov. Mc Arthur and Hon. Lewis Cass, and also 
a number of Indian chiefs. Here they receiv ed the volunteer reinforce- 
ments from the army. A day or two after their reception on board, 
the General and Staff were saluted with the usual number of guns. 
They stood during the time on the quarter deck of the Lawrence in full 
dres uniform, and the Doctor remarked that he has never since looked 
upon a nobler and more martial staff of officers. When the firing be- 
gan, the " Indian Braves" dodged below in double quick time, and 
remained in the cabin until it ceased. Their ears were unused to such 
kind of thunder. 

As it was known that our Cleveland friends had their " Bard " on 
board the Ocean, and the Detroiters the " distinguished poet of the 
day" on the May Queen, it was suggested, during the return of the 
Queen City, that " Sandusky " ought also to be represented by the 
Muses, whereupon one of her citizens became rhapsodical, and subse- 
quently produced the following : 

THE ISLANDS OF ERIE. 

BY R. K. MCMEEXS, M. I). 

The Islands of Erie, arrayed in full dress, 
Enrobe the lake scene with a strange loveliness. 



49 

As gorgeously decked iu bright verdure they lie, 
In the soft mellow haze of a still Autumn sky. 
No more brilliant gems though lauded they be 
Ever gleamed mid the groups of old Grecian sea. 
They circle the storm-brewing gates of the West; 
To soothe the "Mad Spirit''* of Erie to rest, 
And lend their slight forms to the rage of the sea, 
To shelter the storm-tossed in succoring lee; 
Or like sentinels seem to be pointing the way 
To the harboring arms of bold "Put-in-Bay." 

When the winds breathless sleep in their caverns of peace 

How sylph-like they sit on the lake's lucent face; 

Or mirrored in beauty on crimson dyed wave 

When the sun silent sinks in his gold-tinted grave, 

And the purple horizon, depends as a shroud, 

Of tapestried mantle, in folds of rich cloud, 

Then deep'ning so gently upon the pale glow, 

So sombre and sad, scarce seeming to know, 

When the last flitting ray of fading twilight, 

Merges in darkness and death gloom of night. 

Oh ! Islands of Erie, how many a scene 
Of shipwreck and battle around you have been, 
How many a gallant young hero went down, 
When Perry and sailors won glorious renown. 
You stand as proud monuments over the dead, 
Who sleep at thy feet in their coffinless bed; 
While the winds shriek or whisper a requiem sigh, 
And the waves join in murmuring a fond lullaby. 
And the Mariner gliding along by thy side. 
Recounts all their deeds with emotions of pride. 

Oh ! Islands of beaut}^, on Erie's broad breast 
That smile in the sunshine like havens of rest; 
Or when the Storm-God in his wrath wildly raves, 
Like " Sisters "t of mercy hang over the waves. 
Ever bloom in your freshness as lovely as now, 
To enrapture the eye and make the heart glow. 



*Erie in the Indian tongue signifies "Mad Spirit." 

f Tlie westernmost group are named the " Three Sisters." 



All ordinary communications, pertaining' to matter connected with the 
Monument Association should be addressed to the Secretary, and those 
of a business and financial character to W. S. Piorson, Esq., Treasurer, 
both of Sandusky City, Ohio. 

R. R. McMEENS, M. D., Secretary. 



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